With cold weather on the horizon in Newark, you may be wondering when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you should even cover it at all.

Your AC unit is a tough piece of equipment. It’s created to resist inclement} weather, including extreme temperatures and torrential precipitation.

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

While installing 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 build up and lower your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more electricity to cool your home.

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

How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover

If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several ideas on selecting the best cover.

Avoid Full Covers

To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your unit and several inches on the side.

Total AC covers can trap water inside your system, potentially corroding metal pieces. It could also make your system a welcoming home for vermin, 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 condensation to build up inside your system. The best type of material 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 decide to use an air conditioner cover, here are the best times to install it.

Cover Your Air Conditioner During Summer

A lightweight mesh cover during the summer allows your air conditioner to run freely 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 rubbish 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 accumulate inside your AC can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a bad storm is imminent in Newark. Hail can critically damage your system’s coils, 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, Luikart Heating & Cooling provides help. Give us a call at 740-200-5591 or schedule an appointment online.