With cold weather approaching 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 tough piece of equipment. It’s engineered to resist bad} weather, including extreme temperatures and heavy precipitation.

Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap moisture. Extra wetness inside your unit can cause internal parts to rust or turn moldy.

While installing an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two seasons 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 obstruct your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more power to cool your home.

Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Home Furniture, Plumbing & Heating heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and examine important parts. This often allows us to spot problems 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 several ideas on choosing the best cover.

Avoid Full Covers

To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your system and a couple of inches on the side.

Full AC covers can trap condensation inside your system, potentially eating away at metal pieces. It could also make your system an inviting home for animals, 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 stop 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 choose to use an air conditioner cover, here are the best times to put it on.

Cover Your Air Conditioner During Summer

A lightweight mesh cover during the summer allows your air conditioner to run unrestricted 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 getting 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 build up inside your air conditioner 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 system if a bad storm is approaching in Kankakee. Hail can seriously damage your system’s fins, impacting 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, Home Furniture, Plumbing & Heating gives assistance. Give us a call at 815-933-8213 or schedule an appointment online.