Should I Cover My AC Unit This Season?

During autumn, most of us forget about our AC units, as we are no longer using them. However, there are still many things you need to do to take care of them in order for your system to be in good condition next spring. It's important to keep your unit clear of leaves and other debris during the fall. In addition, the winter season could cause damage with ice and snow. At this point, you may be thinking that it would be easier to keep your unit clean if you covered it. Royal Heating & Air has gathered the pros and cons of covering your AC unit during the off-season.

Pros of Covering

- Having your air conditioner covered during the fall can prevent leaves, yard waste, sticks and other debris from getting stuck inside. 

- During the winter, a cover can protect your unit from falling ice. Falling ice can cause a lot of damage to your AC unit that could require costly repairs. 

- A cover could also keep the coils cleaner so it runs more efficiently the next time the AC unit is turned on. 

- Covers prevent water from resting directly on the coils and freezing, which could damage them.

Cons of Covering 

- Covers can create the perfect shelter for furry critters. Squirrels, raccoons and rodents seek shelter during the cooler months. If they use your covered AC unit as shelter, they could cause extensive damage to the electrical wiring and other important parts. 

- Although covers prevent water from getting in the AC unit, sometimes covers can create moisture causing mold to grow inside it. When you cover the entire unit, moisture can be trapped inside by creating a high humidity environment as the sun beats down on it.

Should The AC Unit Be Covered?

In the end, deciding to cover it is completely up to you, as there are both advantages and disadvantages to covering your outside unit. On the plus side, your AC unit is kept clean and free of debris. However, if you cover your unit, you run the risk of having critters taking shelter in it. Please note that if you have a heat pump versus an air conditioner, you should never cover it because heat pumps work all year long. In addition, make sure you remember to remove the cover before turning it on again. If you turn on your AC unit with the cover on, you run the risk of burning up your unit. 

Royal Heating & Air

Royal Heating & Air is here for all of your Lake of the Ozarks heating and cooling needs. Whether you are needing a new HVAC system or an upgrade, you can count on Royal Heating & Air. Although the weather this fall has been beautiful, the cold winter season is just around the corner. Make sure your home is nice and warm this upcoming season by having a professional HVAC repair company at the Lake of the Ozarks take a look at your system. To schedule your appointment, call 573-480-4313 today!

Royal Heating & Air - "The King of Comfort"

Visit our website: www.RoyalHeatandAir.com
CALL TODAY! (573) 480-4313

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