With cold weather on the horizon in Des Moines, you may be thinking 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 bad weather, including extreme temperatures and relentless precipitation.

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

While using 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 rubbish during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can pile up and obstruct your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more electricity to cool your house.

Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Heartland Heating & Cooling heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and inspect essential components. This often allows us to pinpoint trouble before they begin.

How to Find Your Air Conditioner Cover

If you come to the conclusion you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several ideas on choosing the ideal cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Complete AC covers can trap moisture inside your equipment, potentially eating away at metal components. It could also make your AC a welcoming area for rodents, 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 block air, which could cause water to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of fabric is one that’s breathable, 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 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 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 stop leaves, nuts and other waste from dropping into your equipment.

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 heavy snow is on the way. Snow and ice that collect inside your system can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a severe storm is imminent in Des Moines. Hail can critically damage your system’s fins, affecting 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, Heartland Heating & Cooling offers aid. Give us a call at 515-344-3579 or schedule an appointment online.