With cold weather coming in South Beloit and Belvidere, 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 sturdy piece of equipment. It’s created to resist bad weather, including extreme temperatures and heavy precipitation.

Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap water. 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 periods that are good to use a cover for a long period of time—fall and summer.

That’s because yard waste 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 longer and may use more power to cool your home.

Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Fleming Heating & Air Conditioning Inc heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and inspect critical pieces. This often allows us to identify problems before they begin.

Choosing the Right Air Conditioner Cover

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

Avoid Full Covers

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

Total AC covers can trap moisture inside your equipment, potentially eating away at metal pieces. It could also make your air conditioner a cozy place 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 stop air, which could cause condensation to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of fabric is one that’s breathable, 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 unrestricted 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 stop leaves, nuts and other rubbish from getting into your unit.

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 approaching. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your AC can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and reducing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a bad storm is approaching in South Beloit and Belvidere. Hail can seriously damage your system’s exterior, altering efficiency.

Related: How Severe Weather Can Lead to AC Repair

We Can Make Sure Your AC Is Always Covered

Whether you have questions about heating and cooling or need air conditioning service, Fleming Heating & Air Conditioning Inc provides aid. Give us a call at 877-389-2465 or schedule an appointment online.