With cold weather coming in Macon, 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 tough piece of equipment. It’s designed to resist bad} weather, including intense temperatures and relentless precipitation.

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

While installing 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 rubbish during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can build up and lower your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more energy to cool your house.

Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular 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 issues before they begin.

How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover

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

Avoid Full Covers

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

Total AC covers can trap water inside your unit, potentially eating away at metal pieces. It could also make your air conditioner a cozy area 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 impede air, which could cause water 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 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 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 stop leaves, nuts and other waste from dropping 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 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 anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a strong storm is imminent in Macon. Hail can severely damage your system’s coils, 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, Air Temperature Control gives help. Give us a call at 478-202-3170 or schedule an appointment online.