With cold weather on the horizon in Rock Hill, 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 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 unit can cause internal components to rust or turn moldy.

While using an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two times of year that are good to use a cover for a lengthy period of time—fall and summer.

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

Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from US Air Heating and Cooling heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and inspect essential pieces. This often allows us to identify trouble before they begin.

How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover

If you come to the conclusion you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple suggestions on selecting the best cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Total AC covers can trap water inside your equipment, potentially rusting metal pieces. It could also make your AC a cozy 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 stop air, which could cause condensation to build up inside your unit. 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 decide 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 stop leaves, nuts and other debris 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 blizzard is on the way. Snow and ice that collect inside your AC can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and lowering efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a severe storm is imminent in Rock Hill. Hail can severely 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, US Air Heating and Cooling gives help. Give us a call at 803-220-0761 or schedule an appointment online.