With cold weather on the horizon in Litchfield Park, you may be wondering when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you have to cover it at all.

Your AC unit is a strong piece of equipment. It’s created to resist bad weather, including extreme temperatures and torrential precipitation.

Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap water. Too much wetness inside your equipment can cause internal parts to rust or turn moldy.

While installing an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two seasons that are good to use a cover for an extended period of time—fall and summer.

That’s because yard waste during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can accumulate and block your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more power to cool your house.

Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Cooler Tymes LLC heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and examine critical pieces. This often allows us to pinpoint trouble before they begin.

Find the Right Air Conditioner Cover

If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few tips on picking the ideal cover.

Avoid Full Covers

To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your unit and a couple of inches on the side.

Full AC covers can trap moisture inside your unit, potentially corroding metal components. It could also make your air conditioner a welcoming area for vermin, 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 stop air, which could cause condensation to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of fabric is one that allows airflow, like canvas or mesh.

Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money

When You Should Cover Your Air Conditioner

If you choose to use an air conditioner cover, here are the best times to install 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 stop leaves, nuts and other rubbish 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 coming. Snow and ice that collect inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a bad storm is approaching in Litchfield Park. Hail can seriously damage your system’s coils, altering efficiency.

Related: How Severe Weather Can Lead to AC Repair

We Can Help Keep Your AC Protected

Whether you have questions about heating and cooling or need air conditioning service, Cooler Tymes LLC gives assistance. Give us a call at 623-208-6444 or schedule an appointment online.