With cold weather on the horizon in Kankakee, 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 inclement weather, including excessive temperatures and heavy precipitation.

Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap water. Extra wetness inside your unit can cause internal pieces to rust or become moldy.

While using an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two seasons that are ideal for using 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 pile up and block your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more energy to cool your residence.

Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Home Furniture, Plumbing & Heating heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and examine important pieces. This often allows us to spot issues before they begin.

How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover

If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several ideas on choosing the right cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Total AC covers can trap condensation inside your equipment, potentially rusting metal parts. It could also make your AC a cozy home for vermin, 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 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 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 branches 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 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 heavy snow is coming. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your AC can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and reducing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a severe storm is coming in Kankakee. Hail can severely damage your system’s fins, altering efficiency.

Related: How Severe Weather Can Lead to AC Repair

We Can Help Keep Your AC Protected

Whether you have questions about heating and cooling or need air conditioning service, Home Furniture, Plumbing & Heating provides help. Give us a call at 815-933-8213 or schedule an appointment online.