With cold weather coming in Port Orchard, you may be wondering when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you need to cover it at all.

Your AC unit is a sturdy 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. Additional wetness inside your system can cause internal parts to rust or turn moldy.

While installing an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two periods that are good to use 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 obstruct your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more power to cool your residence.

Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Air Masters 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.

How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover

If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few tips on picking the best cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Complete AC covers can trap water inside your system, potentially eating away at metal pieces. It could also make your system an inviting place 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 stop air, which could cause water to build up inside your system. 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 decide 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 freely while keeping grass clippings and branches out.

Related: How Do I Know if My Air Conditioner is Running Properly?

Cover Your Air Conditioner During Fall

A breathable canvas cover will block leaves, nuts and other waste from falling 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 coming. Snow and ice that build up inside your AC can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and reducing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a severe storm is approaching in Port Orchard. Hail can critically damage your system’s exterior, 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, Air Masters Heating & Cooling gives aid. Give us a call at 360-205-7115 or schedule an appointment online.