With cold weather on the horizon in Erie, you may be thinking when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you have to cover it at all.

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

Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap moisture. Extra wetness inside your system can cause internal components to rust or become moldy.

While installing an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two times of year that are good to use 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 obstruct your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more power to cool your residence.

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

How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover

If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple ideas on picking the best cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Total AC covers can trap condensation inside your equipment, potentially rusting metal components. It could also make your system an inviting place 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 block air, which could cause water to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of fabric is one that allows airflow, 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 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 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 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 on the way. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your AC can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a strong storm is coming in Erie. Hail can critically damage your system’s fins, affecting 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, Patterson & Stirling provides assistance. Give us a call at 814-308-0416 or schedule an appointment online.