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

Your AC unit is a sturdy piece of equipment. It’s created to resist severe weather, including excessive temperatures and heavy precipitation.

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

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

That’s because yard waste during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can pile up and lower your system’s airflow. Diminished 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 Lakeside Heating & Air heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and examine important pieces. This often allows us to pinpoint problems before they begin.

How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover

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

Avoid Full Covers

To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your equipment and a few inches on the side.

Complete AC covers can trap moisture inside your system, potentially eating away at metal parts. It could also make your AC an inviting area for vermin, which could eat through 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 moisture to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of clot is one that lets in air, 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 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 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 heavy snow is coming. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and reducing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a strong storm is coming in Chelan and Wenatchee. Hail can seriously damage your system’s fins, altering efficiency.

Related: How Severe Weather Can Lead to AC Repair

We Can Help Keep Your AC Protected

Whether you have questions about heating and cooling or need air conditioning service, Lakeside Heating & Air provides help. Give us a call at 509-284-4265 or schedule an appointment online.