With cold weather coming in Columbus, 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 sturdy piece of equipment. It’s designed to resist inclement weather, including excessive temperatures and heavy precipitation.

Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap moisture. Additional wetness inside your system can cause internal pieces to rust or turn moldy.

While using an air conditioner cover is a personal 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 debris during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can build up and lower your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more electricity to cool your house.

Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Classic Air heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and inspect essential pieces. This often allows us to spot problems before they begin.

Find the Right Air Conditioner Cover

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

Avoid Full Covers

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

Full AC covers can trap water inside your system, potentially corroding metal parts. It could also make your AC a cozy home for animals, 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 condensation to build up inside your system. The best type of material 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 choose to use an air conditioner cover, here are the best times to use 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 stop leaves, nuts and other waste from falling 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 a snowstorm is approaching. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your system can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a bad storm is imminent in Columbus. Hail can seriously 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, Classic Air provides help. Give us a call at 614-210-3041 or schedule an appointment online.