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

Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap water. Too much wetness inside your system can cause internal parts to rust or turn moldy.

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

That’s because yard rubbish 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 more and may use more energy 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 equipment, and take a close look at important components. This often allows us to spot trouble before they begin.

How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover

If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple ideas on choosing the right cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Complete AC covers can trap water inside your system, potentially corroding metal components. It could also make your AC an inviting place 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 impede air, which could cause moisture to build up inside your system. 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 choose 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 smoothly 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 getting 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 a snowstorm is coming. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your system can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and lowering efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a severe storm is coming in Des Moines. Hail can severely damage your system’s fins, impacting 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 provides assistance. Give us a call at 515-344-3579 or schedule an appointment online.