With cold weather coming in Ballwin and St. Charles, you may be wondering when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you have to cover it at all.

Your AC unit is a strong piece of equipment. It’s created to resist bad} weather, including extreme temperatures and heavy precipitation.

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

While putting on an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two periods that are ideal for using a cover for an extended 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. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more energy to cool your home.

Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Air Alliance Team heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and inspect essential pieces. This often allows us to pinpoint issues 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 flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your unit and a few inches on the side.

Complete AC covers can trap condensation inside your system, potentially eating away at metal components. It could also make your system a cozy place for animals, 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 impede air, which could cause water to build up inside your unit. The best type of clot 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 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 branches 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 debris 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 blizzard is approaching. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your system can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and lowering efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a bad storm is imminent in Ballwin and St. Charles. Hail can seriously damage your system’s coils, impacting 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, Air Alliance Team gives assistance. Give us a call at 636-206-4250 or schedule an appointment online.