The Effects of Cottonwood Season on Your Air Conditioner

Cottonwood trees are a sight to see, but their white, fluffy, cotton-like seeds can cause a number of problems for your AC. These seeds can be drawn into your cooling unit when it runs, potentially accumulating inside and requiring the unit to work harder when pulling in air. As a result, your cooling system will run more often and leave you with a higher energy bill. 

In this post, All Seasons Inc., one of the top HVAC and electric panel companies in the region, shares how cottonwood trees can specifically damage your air conditioner and what you can do to address such issues.

• Overworked components. Once cottonwood particles attach to the condenser coils or other AC components, those parts will have to work harder than usual. Overworked components are more likely to fail over time, and may require immediate, frequent replacement. If the issue continues, the compressor might overheat and need to be replaced.

• Loss of airflow. According to expert air conditioning companies, cottonwood fluff can also limit airflow within your AC if it gets sucked into the condenser coil. If the air goes from a steady stream to a slow trickle, your unit will have a hard time keeping your home cool and comfortable throughout the summer.
• Higher utility bills. As a result of the two problems mentioned above, your unit’s energy efficiency will be greatly reduced. A less-efficient AC costs more to run every month, meaning you’ll be throwing money down the drain. While a few extra bucks each month may not seem like much, all of the extra costs will really add up over time.

Fortunately, the dreaded cottonwood issue can be solved by calling in an expert HVAC technician like All Seasons Inc. As one of the leading local AC and furnace companies, we can effectively eliminate cottonwood buildup in your AC system. For the best results, have your AC cleaned annually, preferably in the spring or early summer.

Call us at (253) 465-8981 or fill out our form today to schedule a FREE consultation. We serve homeowners in Gig Harbor, Tacoma, WA, and nearby communities.