With cold weather coming in Cedar Rapids, you may be questioning when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you should even cover it at all.

Your AC unit is a sturdy piece of equipment. It’s engineered to resist inclement} weather, including extreme temperatures and torrential precipitation.

Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap moisture. Extra wetness inside your system can cause internal pieces to rust or become moldy.

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

That’s because yard debris 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 energy to cool your residence.

Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Ilten's heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and examine important pieces. This often allows us to identify trouble before they begin.

How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover

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

Avoid Full Covers

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

Complete AC covers can trap moisture inside your equipment, potentially corroding metal components. It could also make your air conditioner an inviting area for rodents, 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 block air, which could cause moisture to build up inside your air conditioner. 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 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 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 stop leaves, nuts and other rubbish from getting 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 a blizzard is approaching. Snow and ice that collect inside your AC can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and lowering efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a severe storm is coming 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 Your AC System Run Efficiently

Whether you have questions about heating and cooling or need air conditioning service, Ilten's offers aid. Give us a call at 319-208-2351 or schedule an appointment online.