With cold weather on the horizon in Winnipeg, you may be wondering when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you should even cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a strong piece of equipment. It’s engineered to resist inclement weather, including extreme temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap water. Additional wetness inside your equipment can cause internal components to rust or get moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two periods that are good to use a cover for a lengthy period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard debris during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can accumulate and obstruct your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more electricity to cool your residence.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Kirkfield Heating & Air Conditioning heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and take a close look at essential pieces. This often allows us to identify issues before they begin.
Find the Right Air Conditioner Cover
If you come to the conclusion you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few tips 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 a few inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap moisture inside your equipment, potentially rusting metal pieces. It could also make your system 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 stop air, which could cause moisture to build up inside your unit. The best type of material is one that lets in air, 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 install it.
Cover Your Air Conditioner During Summer
A lightweight mesh cover during the summer allows your air conditioner to run unrestricted 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 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 accumulate inside your AC 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 coming in Winnipeg. Hail can severely damage your system’s coils, impacting efficiency.
Related: How Severe Weather Can Lead to AC Repair
We Can Make Sure Your AC Is Always Covered
Whether you have questions about heating and cooling or need air conditioning service, Kirkfield Heating & Air Conditioning offers help. Give us a call at 204-272-8128 or schedule an appointment online.
