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

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

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

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

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

Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Home Comfort Heating & Air heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and take a close look at essential pieces. This often allows us to pinpoint problems before they begin.

Choosing the Right Air Conditioner Cover

If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several suggestions on picking the ideal cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Complete AC covers can trap condensation inside your system, potentially eating away at metal parts. It could also make your AC an inviting area 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 block air, which could cause condensation to build up inside your system. The best type of clot is one that’s breathable, 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 halt 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 heavy snow is approaching. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your system can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a bad storm is coming in Elk River. Hail can critically damage your system’s exterior, altering efficiency.

Related: How Severe Weather Can Lead to AC Repair

We Can Make Sure Your AC Is Always Covered

Whether you have questions about heating and cooling or need air conditioning service, Home Comfort Heating & Air provides help. Give us a call at 763-276-0617 or schedule an appointment online.