With cold weather approaching in Circleville, 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 strong piece of equipment. It’s created to resist inclement} weather, including excessive temperatures and relentless precipitation.

Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap water. Extra wetness inside your equipment can cause internal components to rust or become moldy.

While installing an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two periods 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 pile up and lower your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more energy to cool your residence.

Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Stephen Hurst Pack Heating and Cooling heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and examine important parts. This often allows us to pinpoint problems before they begin.

How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover

If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few ideas on selecting the right cover.

Avoid Full Covers

To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your unit and a few inches on the side.

Total AC covers can trap water inside your system, potentially rusting metal components. It could also make your air conditioner a welcoming place for animals, 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 impede air, which could cause moisture to build up inside your unit. The best type of fabric 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 want 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 sticks 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 getting into your unit.

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 on the way. Snow and ice that collect inside your system can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and reducing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a bad storm is imminent in Circleville. Hail can seriously damage your system’s coils, altering 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, Stephen Hurst Pack Heating and Cooling gives help. Give us a call at 740-474-5940 or schedule an appointment online.