With cold weather coming in Lawrence, 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 sturdy piece of equipment. It’s created to resist bad weather, including intense temperatures and relentless precipitation.

Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap condensation. Extra wetness inside your equipment can cause internal parts to rust or become moldy.

While installing an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two periods 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 pile up and block your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more power to cool your house.

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

Find the Right Air Conditioner Cover

If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple tips on picking the ideal cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Full AC covers can trap condensation inside your unit, potentially rusting metal components. It could also make your AC an inviting area for rodents, 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 condensation to build up inside your air conditioner. 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 It’s Time to Cover your AC

If you choose to use an air conditioner cover, here are the best times to install 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 twigs 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 debris 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 snowstorm is coming. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your air conditioner 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 AC if a bad storm is approaching in Lawrence. Hail can seriously damage your system’s fins, 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, Scott Temperature gives help. Give us a call at 785-269-0465 or schedule an appointment online.