With cold weather coming in Naples, you may be wondering when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you have to cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a tough piece of equipment. It’s created to withstand bad weather, including intense temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems, because they can trap condensation. Additional wetness inside your unit can cause internal pieces to rust or become moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two times of year that are good to use a cover for a long period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard rubbish during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can accumulate and lower your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more energy to cool your house.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from CNR Air Conditioning Inc heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and examine essential pieces. 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 tips on choosing the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your system and several inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap water inside your equipment, potentially eating away at metal parts. It could also make your AC a welcoming place 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 water to build up inside your system. The best type of material is one that allows airflow, like canvas or mesh.
Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money
When to Use an Air Conditioner Cover
If you want to use an air conditioner cover, here are the best times to put it on.
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 sticks out.
Related: How Do I Know if My Air Conditioner is Running Properly?
Cover Your Air Conditioner During Fall
A breathable canvas cover will stop 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 snowstorm is on the way. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your system 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 system if a strong storm is coming in Naples. Hail can seriously damage your system’s fins, altering 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, CNR Air Conditioning Inc offers aid. Give us a call at 239-241-5318 or schedule an appointment online.