With cold weather coming in Elk River, 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 tough piece of equipment. It’s designed to resist bad} weather, including excessive temperatures and torrential precipitation.

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

While installing an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two times of year that are good to use 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 pile up and lower your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more electricity to cool your residence.

Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Home Comfort Heating & Air heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and examine essential components. 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 suggestions on choosing the right cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Total AC covers can trap moisture inside your equipment, potentially rusting metal pieces. It could also make your air conditioner a cozy home 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 moisture to build up inside your unit. 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 to Use an Air Conditioner Cover

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 freely 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 rubbish from falling 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 snowstorm is on the way. Snow and ice that collect inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and reducing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a bad storm is approaching in Elk River. Hail can severely 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, Home Comfort Heating & Air offers aid. Give us a call at 763-276-0617 or schedule an appointment online.