With cold weather on the horizon in Reinholds, 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 strong piece of equipment. It’s designed to resist bad weather, including excessive temperatures and relentless precipitation.

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

While using an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two times of year that are great for using a cover for an extended 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. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more energy to cool your house.

Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from County Line Mechanical LLC heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and inspect essential components. This often allows us to pinpoint problems before they begin.

How to Find Your Air Conditioner Cover

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

Avoid Full Covers

To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your unit and a few inches on the side.

Full AC covers can trap condensation inside your system, potentially rusting metal parts. It could also make your air conditioner an inviting place 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 stop air, which could cause moisture to build up inside your air conditioner. 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 It’s Time to Cover your AC

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 rubbish from dropping 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 on the way. Snow and ice that build up inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and lowering efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a severe storm is imminent in Reinholds. 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, County Line Mechanical LLC gives help. Give us a call at 717-216-0846 or schedule an appointment online.