With cold weather approaching in Huntsville, you may be wondering when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you should even cover it at all.

Your AC unit is a tough piece of equipment. It’s engineered to resist severe weather, including excessive temperatures and heavy precipitation.

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

While installing an air conditioner cover is a personal 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. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more energy to cool your home.

Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from All Weather Heating & Air Conditioning Inc heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and take a close look at critical pieces. This often allows us to identify trouble before they begin.

How to Find Your Air Conditioner Cover

If you come to the conclusion you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple suggestions on picking the ideal cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Complete AC covers can trap moisture inside your equipment, potentially eating away at metal parts. It could also make your AC a cozy home for vermin, 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 moisture to build up inside your system. The best type of material is one that lets in air, like canvas or mesh.

Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money

When You Should Cover Your Air Conditioner

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 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 stop leaves, nuts and other rubbish from getting into your unit.

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 coming. Snow and ice that collect inside your AC can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and lowering efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a strong storm is coming in Huntsville. Hail can seriously damage your system’s coils, 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, All Weather Heating & Air Conditioning Inc provides help. Give us a call at 256-801-4701 or schedule an appointment online.