With cold weather on the horizon in Greensburg, 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 inclement} weather, including excessive temperatures and torrential precipitation.

Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap condensation. Extra wetness inside your unit can cause internal parts to rust or get moldy.

While using an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two periods that are good to use 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 build up and obstruct your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more energy to cool your house.

Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Wallpe Heating & Cooling heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and examine critical parts. 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 several suggestions on selecting the right cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Complete AC covers can trap condensation inside your system, potentially rusting metal parts. It could also make your AC a cozy home for rodents, 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 stop 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 to Use an Air Conditioner Cover

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 smoothly 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 block leaves, nuts and other waste from falling 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, damaging condenser coils and lowering 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 Greensburg. 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, Wallpe Heating & Cooling offers aid. Give us a call at 812-663-7252 or schedule an appointment online.