With cold weather coming in Cedar Rapids, you may be wondering 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 created to resist severe weather, including extreme temperatures and relentless precipitation.

Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap water. Additional wetness inside your equipment can cause internal components to rust or become moldy.

While putting on an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two times of year that are ideal for using 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 pile up and lower your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more energy to cool your home.

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 unit, and inspect critical parts. This often allows us to identify issues before they begin.

How to Find Your Air Conditioner Cover

If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several tips on choosing the best cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Total AC covers can trap condensation inside your equipment, potentially rusting metal components. It could also make your air conditioner a cozy area 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 moisture to build up inside your system. The best type of fabric 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 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 unrestricted while keeping grass clippings and twigs 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 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 blizzard is on the way. Snow and ice that build up inside your AC can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and reducing 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 seriously damage your system’s coils, impacting efficiency.

Related: How Severe Weather Can Lead to AC Repair

We Can Make Sure Your AC Is Always Covered

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.