Does a Cover Help the AC Compressor Function?

The air conditioner's compressor is the brain of the entire system. There are many different components inside the compressor unit, including refrigerant and the condensing coil. The refrigerant absorbs heat from the air inside, while the condensing coil disperses that heat into the outside air.

When the weather is hot outside, the whole AC system has to work harder to remove the indoor heat. This is why many people believe that providing a shade for the system is helpful in the removal of hot air. Ultimately, the answer as to whether or not a shade will help depends on the type of shade you use.

Before you even attempt to place a shade over your outdoor compressor, you should have a full understanding of how the system works. You do not want to completely enclose the unit. The unit needs full air circulation around it to function. The unit also needs to exhaust hot air out the top. If you place a barrier over the top with no ventilation, you risk ruining your HVAC.

When you shade an outdoor unit, you reduce the amount of solar energy to the unit, but the air temperature around the compressor can still receive the hot air. The temperature of the air surrounding the outdoor unit has more of an impact than the amount of sun shining down on the unit itself.

If you only plan to do a small-scale shading system or a simple deck-like structure over the unit, chances are the shade will not have an overall impact on the HVAC's ability to more efficiently cool your home. In most cases, covering the outdoor unit is not the most efficient way to help your HVAC function better.

To better ensure the air conditioner will function properly, make sure to have a regular maintenance check to prevent any possible issues. Hire a professional to clean the outdoor unit. You shouldn’t attempt to clean it yourself because you could inadvertently disconnect or break important lines, which will cause the unit to stop working.

The professional should also check the compressor fan. The fan can accumulate grass, dust, and other debris, which prevents it from operating at its full capacity. The fan should have proper lubrication as well. Some compressors have a belt system, which may need maintenance and lubrication from time to time.

Look at the bottom of the compressor and check for any dark substance dripping out. If you see any liquid at all, the system could be leaking oil or refrigerant.

In addition to working on the outdoor unit, you should also have your ducting system checked to ensure it is not leaking cool air into your basement or outside. If you begin to notice your home is hotter than it should be, have your HVAC technician check for tears or leaks. The problem may not have anything to do with your outdoor compressor.

Floridians rely heavily on their air conditioners, and the systems need to work properly. If you have any additional questions about or problems with your air conditioner system, please contact the professionals at Weather Control Air Conditioning, Inc. Our professional team can help you solve any of your heating and cooling problems right away.