With cold weather approaching in Lodi, you may be questioning when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you need to cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a strong piece of equipment. It’s created to take on bad weather, including excessive temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good, because they can trap condensation. Additional wetness inside your unit can cause internal parts to rust or get moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two periods that are ideal for using a cover for a long period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard debris during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can accumulate and block your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more energy to cool your home.
Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Tokay Heating and Air Conditioning heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and take a close look at critical parts. This often allows us to pinpoint trouble before they begin.
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How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few suggestions on selecting the right cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your system and several inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap condensation inside your system, potentially eating away at metal pieces. It could also make your air conditioner a welcoming area for vermin, which could chew wires.
Related: What New Homeowners Need to Know About Their Air Conditioner
Don’t Use Plastic or Vinyl Covers
Plastic or vinyl covers impede air, which could cause moisture to build up inside your system. The best type of cloth is one that lets in air, like canvas or mesh.
Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money
When to Use an Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide to use an air conditioner cover, here are the best times to use it.
Cover Your Air Conditioner During Summer
A lightweight mesh cover during the summer allows your air conditioner to run freely while keeping grass clippings and branches out.
Related: How Do I Know if My Air Conditioner is Running Properly?
Cover Your Air Conditioner During Fall
A breathable canvas cover will halt leaves, nuts and other debris from falling into your system.
Related: Tips for Cleaning Your System
Cover Your Air Conditioner Before Severe Weather
You can temporarily cover your air conditioner in the winter when you know a blizzard is approaching. Snow and ice that collect inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a bad storm is approaching in Lodi. Hail can severely damage your system’s exterior, impacting efficiency.
Related: How Severe Weather Can Lead to AC Repair
We Can Help Your AC System Run Efficiently
Whether you have questions about heating and cooling or need air conditioning service, Tokay Heating and Air Conditioning provides help. Give us a call at 209-257-3156 or schedule an appointment online.