With cold weather coming in Cedar Rapids, 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 tough piece of equipment. It’s designed to resist bad weather, including intense temperatures and relentless precipitation.

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

While using an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two periods that are good to use 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 build 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.

Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Ilten's heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and take a close look at critical components. This often allows us to pinpoint trouble 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 ideal cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Full AC covers can trap water inside your unit, potentially eating away at metal parts. It could also make your AC an inviting home for vermin, which could sever 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 condensation to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of clot is one that allows airflow, like canvas or mesh.

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

When It’s Time to Cover your AC

If you want 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 sticks 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 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 accumulate 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 bad storm is approaching in Cedar Rapids. Hail can critically damage your system’s exterior, impacting 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, Ilten's offers help. Give us a call at 319-208-2351 or schedule an appointment online.