With cold weather coming in Holdrege, you may be questioning 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 engineered to resist bad} weather, including extreme temperatures and relentless precipitation.

Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap condensation. Additional wetness inside your system can cause internal components to rust or get moldy.

While putting on an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two seasons that are ideal 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. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more electricity to cool your home.

Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Durable Service heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and examine critical components. This often allows us to identify problems before they begin.

How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover

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

Avoid Full Covers

To keep air flowing, 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 condensation inside your system, potentially corroding metal components. It could also make your air conditioner an inviting home for vermin, 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 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 to Use an Air Conditioner Cover

If you choose 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 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 halt 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 coming. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your air conditioner 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 imminent in Holdrege. Hail can seriously damage your system’s coils, 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, Durable Service provides assistance. Give us a call at 308-995-8177 or schedule an appointment online.