With cold weather coming in Savage, you may be questioning 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 created to resist inclement weather, including extreme temperatures and torrential precipitation.

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

While putting on an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two seasons that are ideal for using a cover for an extended period of time—fall and summer.

That’s because yard rubbish during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can pile up and lower your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more power to cool your home.

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

How to Find Your Air Conditioner Cover

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

Avoid Full Covers

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

Complete AC covers can trap moisture inside your system, potentially rusting metal components. It could also make your system an inviting place for vermin, which could sever 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 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 It’s Time to Cover your AC

If you decide 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 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 rubbish from getting 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 AC 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 air conditioner if a severe storm is approaching in Savage. Hail can severely damage your system’s exterior, affecting efficiency.

Related: How Severe Weather Can Lead to AC Repair

We Can Help Keep Your AC Protected

Whether you have questions about heating and cooling or need air conditioning service, Gopher Heating and Air Conditioning offers help. Give us a call at 952-373-0377 or schedule an appointment online.