With cold weather coming in Macon, you may be wondering 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 severe weather, including intense temperatures and heavy precipitation.

Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap condensation. Too much wetness inside your equipment can cause internal pieces to rust or get moldy.

While using an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two times of year that are great for using a cover for an extended period of time—fall and summer.

That’s because yard waste during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can accumulate and block your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more power to cool your house.

Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Air Temperature Control heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and inspect critical components. This often allows us to spot trouble 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 ideas on selecting the right cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Total AC covers can trap moisture inside your unit, potentially eating away at metal parts. It could also make your air conditioner an inviting home for animals, which could eat through 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 water to build up inside your system. The best type of material 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 decide 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 freely 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 rubbish from falling 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 collect inside your AC can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a strong storm is coming in Macon. Hail can critically damage your system’s exterior, 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, Air Temperature Control gives aid. Give us a call at 478-202-3170 or schedule an appointment online.