With cold weather approaching in Marshalltown, 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 strong piece of equipment. It’s designed to resist severe} weather, including intense temperatures and torrential precipitation.

Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap condensation. Too much wetness inside your unit can cause internal components to rust or become moldy.

While using an air conditioner cover is a personal 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. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more power to cool your home.

Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Kapaun & Brown heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and take a close look at important parts. 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 several suggestions on selecting the right cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Complete AC covers can trap water inside your unit, potentially corroding metal pieces. It could also make your AC a cozy area for rodents, 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 moisture to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of clot is one that allows airflow, 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 use it.

Cover Your Air Conditioner During Summer

A lightweight mesh cover during the summer allows your air conditioner to run unrestricted 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 halt leaves, nuts and other rubbish 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 build up inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and reducing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a bad storm is coming in Marshalltown. Hail can critically damage your system’s exterior, 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, Kapaun & Brown offers help. Give us a call at 641-812-2028 or schedule an appointment online.