With cold weather coming in Lawrence, you may be wondering when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you need to cover it at all.

Your AC unit is a strong piece of equipment. It’s created to resist severe} weather, including excessive temperatures and relentless precipitation.

Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap water. Too much wetness inside your equipment can cause internal parts to rust or become moldy.

While using an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two times of year that are great for using 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 power to cool your house.

Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Scott Temperature heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and examine important components. This often allows us to identify problems before they begin.

How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover

If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few suggestions on picking the ideal cover.

Avoid Full Covers

To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your equipment and a couple of inches on the side.

Full AC covers can trap water inside your unit, potentially rusting metal pieces. It could also make your system a cozy 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 impede air, which could cause condensation to build up inside your system. The best type of material 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 want 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 unrestricted 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 block leaves, nuts and other rubbish from dropping 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 heavy snow is on the way. Snow and ice that collect inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a severe storm is coming in Lawrence. Hail can critically damage your system’s fins, 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, Scott Temperature gives assistance. Give us a call at 785-269-0465 or schedule an appointment online.