With cold weather on the horizon in Marshalltown, you may be thinking 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 inclement weather, including excessive temperatures and torrential precipitation.

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

While using an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two seasons that are great 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 lower your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more electricity to cool your house.

Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Kapaun & Brown heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and examine important pieces. This often allows us to pinpoint trouble before they begin.

How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover

If you come to the conclusion you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple ideas on selecting 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 couple of inches on the side.

Total AC covers can trap moisture inside your equipment, potentially corroding metal components. It could also make your air conditioner a welcoming area for vermin, which could chew 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 water to build up inside your unit. 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 choose 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 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 snowstorm is on the way. Snow and ice that collect inside your system can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a strong storm is approaching in Marshalltown. Hail can seriously 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, Kapaun & Brown gives help. Give us a call at 641-812-2028 or schedule an appointment online.