With cold weather approaching in Newark, you may be thinking 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 designed to resist bad weather, including excessive temperatures and heavy precipitation.

Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap moisture. Too much wetness inside your equipment can cause internal pieces to rust or turn moldy.

While putting on an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two periods that are great for using a cover for a lengthy period of time—fall and summer.

That’s because yard waste during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can accumulate and lower your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more power to cool your home.

Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Luikart Heating & Cooling heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and inspect critical parts. This often allows us to identify issues 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 tips on selecting the ideal cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Total AC covers can trap moisture inside your unit, potentially corroding metal pieces. It could also make your AC a cozy home for vermin, which could eat through 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 water to build up inside your unit. The best type of clot 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 choose 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 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 block 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 heavy snow is coming. Snow and ice that build up inside your system can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a severe storm is imminent in Newark. Hail can seriously damage your system’s coils, 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, Luikart Heating & Cooling offers assistance. Give us a call at 740-344-5497 or schedule an appointment online.