With cold weather approaching in Chadron, you may be questioning when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you have to cover it at all.

Your AC unit is a tough piece of equipment. It’s designed to resist bad weather, including intense temperatures and heavy precipitation.

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

While installing an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two periods that are ideal for using a cover for an extended period of time—fall and summer.

That’s because yard waste during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can build up and lower your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more electricity to cool your residence.

Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from MPC Heating & Cooling heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and examine important pieces. This often allows us to pinpoint issues before they begin.

Choosing the Right Air Conditioner Cover

If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several ideas on picking the best cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Total AC covers can trap condensation inside your equipment, potentially rusting metal pieces. It could also make your AC a welcoming home for rodents, 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 stop air, which could cause moisture to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of material is one that’s breathable, like canvas or mesh.

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

When It’s Time to Cover your AC

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 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 stop leaves, nuts and other rubbish from getting 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 blizzard is on the way. Snow and ice that collect inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a severe storm is coming in Chadron. 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, MPC Heating & Cooling offers assistance. Give us a call at 308-832-4321 or schedule an appointment online.