With cold weather approaching in Narvon, you may be thinking when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you have to cover it at all.

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

Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap condensation. Extra wetness inside your system can cause internal parts to rust or get moldy.

While installing an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two seasons that are ideal for using a cover for a lengthy period of time—fall and summer.

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

Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Ameri-Tec heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and inspect important components. This often allows us to identify issues before they begin.

Choosing the Right Air Conditioner Cover

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

Avoid Full Covers

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

Complete AC covers can trap water inside your system, potentially corroding metal parts. It could also make your AC a welcoming place 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 impede air, which could cause moisture to build up inside your system. The best type of fabric is one that lets in air, 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 put it on.

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 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 halt leaves, nuts and other rubbish from dropping 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 a blizzard is coming. Snow and ice that collect inside your AC can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a strong storm is imminent in Narvon. Hail can critically 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, Ameri-Tec provides help. Give us a call at 717-479-4950 or schedule an appointment online.