With cold weather coming in Carson City, you may be wondering 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 engineered to resist inclement} weather, including extreme temperatures and torrential precipitation.

Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap moisture. Too much wetness inside your equipment can cause internal components to rust or get moldy.

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

That’s because yard rubbish during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can pile up and block your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more energy to cool your home.

Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Anderson Heating & A/C heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and examine essential pieces. This often allows us to pinpoint issues 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 right cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Full AC covers can trap condensation inside your system, potentially corroding metal parts. It could also make your air conditioner a cozy home 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 block air, which could cause water to build up inside your unit. The best type of clot is one that’s breathable, 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 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 dropping 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 snowstorm is coming. Snow and ice that collect inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and lowering efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a bad storm is approaching in Carson City. Hail can seriously 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, Anderson Heating & A/C provides help. Give us a call at 775-230-7628 or schedule an appointment online.