With cold weather coming in Des Moines, you may be questioning when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you have to cover it at all.

Your AC unit is a strong piece of equipment. It’s designed to resist severe weather, including excessive temperatures and torrential precipitation.

Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap water. Extra wetness inside your equipment can cause internal pieces to rust or get moldy.

While installing an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two times of year 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 obstruct your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more electricity to cool your house.

Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Kohles & Bach Heating & Cooling heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and take a close look at essential 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 choosing the ideal 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.

Full AC covers can trap condensation inside your unit, potentially corroding metal parts. It could also make your AC an inviting place for vermin, which could chew wires.

Related: What New Homeowners Need to Know About Their Air Conditioner

Don’t Use Plastic or Vinyl Covers

Plastic or vinyl covers stop air, which could cause moisture to build up inside your air conditioner. 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 to Use an Air Conditioner Cover

If you want 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 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 debris 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 blizzard is coming. Snow and ice that build up inside your AC can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and lowering efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a severe storm is imminent in Des Moines. Hail can seriously damage your system’s fins, affecting 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, Kohles & Bach Heating & Cooling provides assistance. Give us a call at 515-278-2900 or schedule an appointment online.