With cold weather on the horizon in Jefferson City, 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 designed to resist bad weather, including excessive temperatures and torrential precipitation.

Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap moisture. Additional wetness inside your unit can cause internal parts to rust or become moldy.

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

That’s because yard debris during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can accumulate and obstruct your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more electricity to cool your home.

Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Stieferman Heating Company Inc heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and examine essential components. This often allows us to identify trouble before they begin.

Choosing the Right Air Conditioner Cover

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

Avoid Full Covers

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

Total AC covers can trap water inside your system, potentially eating away at metal components. It could also make your system a welcoming home 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 condensation to build up inside your unit. 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 You Should Cover Your Air Conditioner

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 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 debris 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 heavy snow is coming. Snow and ice that collect inside your system can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and lowering efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a severe storm is imminent in Jefferson City. Hail can seriously damage your system’s fins, impacting 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, Stieferman Heating Company Inc offers aid. Give us a call at 573-635-3547 or schedule an appointment online.