With cold weather approaching in Northglenn, you may be questioning 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 inclement} weather, including intense temperatures and heavy precipitation.

Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap moisture. Too much wetness inside your system can cause internal components to rust or turn moldy.

While putting on an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two seasons that are ideal for using a cover for a long 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 more and may use more power to cool your residence.

Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Northglenn Heating & Air Conditioning heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and examine critical components. This often allows us to spot problems before they begin.

How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover

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

Avoid Full Covers

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

Complete AC covers can trap moisture inside your unit, potentially rusting metal pieces. It could also make your AC an inviting place 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 impede air, which could cause water to build up inside your system. 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 choose 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 halt 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 heavy snow is approaching. Snow and ice that collect inside your system can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a severe storm is approaching in Northglenn. Hail can seriously damage your system’s coils, 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, Northglenn Heating & Air Conditioning gives aid. Give us a call at 303-452-4146 or schedule an appointment online.