With cold weather coming in Michigan City, you may be thinking 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 inclement weather, including intense temperatures and relentless precipitation.

Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap water. Too much wetness inside your equipment can cause internal parts to rust or turn moldy.

While putting on an air conditioner cover is your own 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 debris during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can build up and block your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more power to cool your residence.

Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Paniccia Heating & Cooling heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and take a close look at critical components. This often allows us to pinpoint problems before they begin.

Choosing the Right Air Conditioner Cover

If you come to the conclusion you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple tips on selecting the right cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Full AC covers can trap moisture inside your unit, potentially eating away at metal components. It could also make your AC an inviting area for vermin, 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 moisture to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of fabric is one that allows airflow, like canvas or mesh.

Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money

When It’s Time to Cover your AC

If you want 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 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 halt leaves, nuts and other rubbish from dropping 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 blizzard is on the way. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your system can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and lowering efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a bad storm is imminent in Michigan City. Hail can seriously damage your system’s fins, impacting efficiency.

Related: How Severe Weather Can Lead to AC Repair

We Can Make Sure Your AC Is Always Covered

Whether you have questions about heating and cooling or need air conditioning service, Paniccia Heating & Cooling provides assistance. Give us a call at 219-872-2198 or schedule an appointment online.