With cold weather on the horizon in West Jefferson, you may be thinking when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you should even cover it at all.

Your AC unit is a sturdy piece of equipment. It’s engineered to resist bad weather, including extreme temperatures and relentless precipitation.

Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap moisture. Extra wetness inside your unit can cause internal parts to rust or become moldy.

While using 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 debris during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can accumulate and lower your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more power to cool your home.

Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from West Jefferson Plumbing and Heating, Inc. heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and inspect critical components. This often allows us to identify problems before they begin.

Choosing the Right Air Conditioner Cover

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

Avoid Full Covers

To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your equipment and several inches on the side.

Full AC covers can trap condensation inside your system, potentially corroding metal parts. It could also make your system a cozy home 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 water to build up inside your unit. The best type of material 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 unrestricted while keeping grass clippings and twigs 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 debris from getting into your system.

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 approaching. Snow and ice that collect inside your AC can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a severe storm is coming in West Jefferson. Hail can seriously damage your system’s exterior, 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, West Jefferson Plumbing and Heating, Inc. provides help. Give us a call at 614-879-9091 or schedule an appointment online.