With cold weather approaching in Huntingburg, you may be questioning when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you have to cover it at all.

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

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

While using an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two seasons that are good to use 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 pile up and block your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more energy to cool your house.

Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Dearing's Service & Solutions heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and take a close look at essential parts. This often allows us to spot trouble before they begin.

How to Find Your Air Conditioner Cover

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

Avoid Full Covers

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

Complete AC covers can trap condensation inside your unit, potentially eating away at metal components. It could also make your system an inviting home for vermin, 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 block air, which could cause condensation to build up inside your unit. The best type of material is one that allows airflow, 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 freely 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 rubbish from dropping 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 heavy snow is coming. Snow and ice that collect inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and lowering efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a strong storm is imminent in Huntingburg. Hail can severely damage your system’s exterior, affecting efficiency.

Related: How Severe Weather Can Lead to AC Repair

We Can Help Keep Your AC Protected

Whether you have questions about heating and cooling or need air conditioning service, Dearing's Service & Solutions gives aid. Give us a call at 812-200-5844 or schedule an appointment online.