With cold weather on the horizon in Winnipeg, you may be questioning 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 designed to resist severe weather, including intense temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap condensation. Extra wetness inside your system can cause internal components to rust or become moldy.
While installing an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two periods that are great for using a cover for a lengthy period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard rubbish during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can pile up and lower your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more power to cool your home.
Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Kirkfield Heating & Air Conditioning heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and inspect critical parts. This often allows us to spot problems before they begin.
How to Find Your Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several tips on choosing 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 eating away at metal pieces. It could also make your system an inviting place for animals, which could eat through 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 system. 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 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 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 block leaves, nuts and other waste from dropping into your equipment.
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 coming. Snow and ice that collect inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a strong storm is coming in Winnipeg. Hail can seriously damage your system’s exterior, altering 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 provides aid. Give us a call at 204-272-8128 or schedule an appointment online.
