With cold weather approaching in Portland, you may be wondering when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you need to cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a tough piece of equipment. It’s created to resist inclement weather, including intense temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap water. Extra wetness inside your system can cause internal pieces to rust or turn moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two seasons that are great for using 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 build up and lower your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more power to cool your home.
Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Three Rivers Heating & Cooling heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and examine essential parts. This often allows us to spot trouble before they begin.
Choosing the Right Air Conditioner Cover
If you come to the conclusion you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple ideas on selecting the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, 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 moisture inside your system, potentially rusting metal components. It could also make your AC a welcoming home 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 impede air, which could cause condensation to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of clot is one that’s breathable, 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 use it.
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 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 collect 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 severe storm is imminent in Portland. Hail can critically damage your system’s coils, affecting 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, Three Rivers Heating & Cooling provides help. Give us a call at 503-213-4433 or schedule an appointment online.
