With cold weather approaching in Marshalltown, 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 engineered to resist severe} weather, including excessive temperatures and torrential precipitation.

Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap water. Too much wetness inside your equipment can cause internal parts to rust or get moldy.

While putting on an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two periods that are ideal for using a cover for a long period of time—fall and summer.

That’s because yard debris during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can pile up and obstruct your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more power to cool your residence.

Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from B & G HVAC heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and examine critical parts. This often allows us to pinpoint trouble before they begin.

How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover

If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few ideas on picking the ideal cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Full AC covers can trap moisture inside your system, potentially eating away at metal components. It could also make your system a cozy home 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 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 want 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 freely 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 rubbish from getting 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 a blizzard is on the way. Snow and ice that collect inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and reducing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a strong storm is approaching in Marshalltown. Hail can severely damage your system’s coils, 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, B & G HVAC offers help. Give us a call at 641-316-3360 or schedule an appointment online.