With cold weather coming in Thedford, 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 severe weather, including excessive temperatures and relentless precipitation.

Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap moisture. Extra wetness inside your unit can cause internal components to rust or get moldy.

While installing an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two periods that are great for using a cover for a lengthy period of time—fall and summer.

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

Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Taylor's Heating & Air Conditioning heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and take a close look at important pieces. This often allows us to identify trouble before they begin.

How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover

If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple suggestions on choosing the ideal cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Total AC covers can trap water inside your system, potentially rusting metal components. It could also make your air conditioner an inviting home for vermin, which could sever 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 air conditioner. 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 decide 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 stop leaves, nuts and other waste from falling into your equipment.

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 AC can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a severe storm is approaching in Thedford. Hail can severely damage your system’s fins, 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, Taylor's Heating & Air Conditioning offers aid. Give us a call at 519-296-4437 or schedule an appointment online.