With cold weather coming in Lodi, you may be thinking when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you should even cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a sturdy piece of equipment. It’s created to resist inclement weather, including excessive temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap water. Extra wetness inside your equipment can cause internal pieces to rust or become moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two seasons that are good to use 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 pile up and obstruct your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more power to cool your home.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Tokay heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and inspect essential pieces. This often allows us to pinpoint problems before they begin.
Find the Right Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple tips on picking the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your unit and a couple of inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap water inside your equipment, potentially corroding metal pieces. It could also make your system an inviting place for animals, 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 block air, which could cause water to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of clot is one that’s breathable, like canvas or mesh.
Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money
When You Should Cover Your Air Conditioner
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 smoothly while keeping grass clippings and twigs out.
Related: How Do I Know if My Air Conditioner is Running Properly?
Cover Your Air Conditioner During Fall
A breathable canvas cover will block leaves, nuts and other rubbish from getting 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 heavy snow is coming. Snow and ice that collect inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and lowering efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a severe storm is approaching in Lodi. Hail can critically damage your system’s exterior, affecting 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 gives assistance. Give us a call at 209-257-3156 or schedule an appointment online.