With cold weather on the horizon in Chadron, you may be thinking when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you need to cover it at all.

Your AC unit is a tough piece of equipment. It’s created to resist severe} weather, including intense temperatures and torrential precipitation.

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

While using an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two times of year that are ideal 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 build up and obstruct your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more power to cool your home.

Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from MPC Heating & Cooling heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and examine important components. This often allows us to identify problems before they begin.

How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover

If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple ideas on choosing the best cover.

Avoid Full Covers

To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your unit and several inches on the side.

Full AC covers can trap condensation inside your system, potentially rusting metal pieces. It could also make your system 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 block air, which could cause water to build up inside your unit. The best type of fabric 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 decide to use an air conditioner cover, here are the best times to use 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 debris 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 on the way. Snow and ice that build up inside your system 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 air conditioner if a strong storm is coming in Chadron. Hail can severely damage your system’s coils, 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 provides assistance. Give us a call at 308-832-4321 or schedule an appointment online.