With cold weather coming in Plover, 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 strong piece of equipment. It’s created to resist bad} weather, including extreme temperatures and relentless precipitation.

Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap moisture. Additional wetness inside your equipment can cause internal pieces to rust or get moldy.

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

That’s because yard waste during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can build up and lower your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more energy to cool your home.

Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Point Heating & Cooling heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and inspect essential pieces. This often allows us to pinpoint issues before they begin.

How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover

If you come to the conclusion you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several tips 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.

Total AC covers can trap condensation inside your system, potentially corroding metal parts. It could also make your system a cozy home for animals, which could eat through 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 air conditioner. 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 decide 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 smoothly 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 block leaves, nuts and other debris from falling 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 on the way. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your AC can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and reducing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a strong storm is coming in Plover. Hail can critically 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, Point Heating & Cooling provides aid. Give us a call at 715-504-0533 or schedule an appointment online.