With cold weather approaching in Myrtle Beach, 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 tough piece of equipment. It’s engineered to resist severe weather, including intense temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap condensation. Too much wetness inside your equipment can cause internal pieces to rust or get moldy.
While installing an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two times of year that are ideal for using a cover for a lengthy period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard waste during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can build up and block your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more electricity to cool your home.
Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Polar Air & Mechanical heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and inspect important pieces. This often allows us to spot problems before they begin.
Choosing the Right Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple tips on selecting the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your equipment and a few inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap water inside your unit, potentially rusting metal components. It could also make your AC a cozy 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 impede air, which could cause condensation to build up inside your system. The best type of fabric is one that lets in air, 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 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 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 falling 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 blizzard is on the way. 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 expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a strong storm is imminent in Myrtle Beach. Hail can seriously damage your system’s exterior, 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, Polar Air & Mechanical gives assistance. Give us a call at 843-253-4874 or schedule an appointment online.
