With cold weather approaching in Huntsville, you may be questioning 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 created to resist severe} weather, including extreme temperatures and relentless precipitation.

Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap moisture. Additional wetness inside your equipment can cause internal components to rust or become moldy.

While using an air conditioner cover is your own 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 debris during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can build up and obstruct your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more electricity to cool your residence.

Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from All Weather Heating & Air Conditioning Inc heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and take a close look at critical components. This often allows us to spot problems before they begin.

How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover

If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several ideas on picking the best cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Full AC covers can trap moisture inside your unit, potentially corroding metal pieces. It could also make your AC an inviting place 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 block air, which could cause water to build up inside your system. The best type of clot is one that lets in air, 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 smoothly 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 waste 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 build up inside your AC can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and lowering efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a bad storm is approaching in Huntsville. Hail can severely damage your system’s exterior, 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, All Weather Heating & Air Conditioning Inc provides assistance. Give us a call at 256-801-4701 or schedule an appointment online.