With cold weather coming in Winnipeg, you may be thinking when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you have to cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a strong piece of equipment. It’s engineered to resist inclement} weather, including extreme temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap water. Extra wetness inside your equipment can cause internal parts to rust or become moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two seasons that are ideal for using 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 build up and obstruct your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more electricity to cool your house.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Kirkfield Heating & Air Conditioning heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and examine important pieces. This often allows us to spot issues before they begin.
How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few suggestions on picking the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, 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 unit, potentially rusting metal components. It could also make your AC an inviting place for animals, which could sever 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 moisture to build up inside your unit. The best type of fabric 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 choose 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 block leaves, nuts and other rubbish from getting into your unit.
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 AC can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and reducing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a strong 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 Help Your AC System Run Efficiently
Whether you have questions about heating and cooling or need air conditioning service, Kirkfield Heating & Air Conditioning gives assistance. Give us a call at 204-272-8128 or schedule an appointment online.
