With cold weather coming in Siloam Springs, you may be wondering when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you need to cover it at all.

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

Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap moisture. Too much wetness inside your unit can cause internal parts to rust or get moldy.

While putting on an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two times of year that are good to use 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 build up and block your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more electricity to cool your home.

Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Siloam Springs Heating & AC heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and inspect important pieces. This often allows us to identify problems before they begin.

How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover

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

Avoid Full Covers

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

Total AC covers can trap moisture inside your system, potentially eating away at metal components. It could also make your AC an inviting place for animals, 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 water to build up inside your unit. The best type of clot 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 smoothly 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 halt leaves, nuts and other rubbish from falling 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 coming. Snow and ice that build up inside your AC can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and reducing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a severe storm is approaching in Siloam Springs. Hail can severely damage your system’s fins, 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, Siloam Springs Heating & AC gives help. Give us a call at 479-308-8176 or schedule an appointment online.