With cold weather coming in Hudsonville, 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 designed to resist severe weather, including extreme temperatures and relentless precipitation.

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

While installing an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two periods that are good to use a cover for a lengthy period of time—fall and summer.

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

Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from West Michigan Heating & Air Conditioning Services heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and examine critical parts. This often allows us to spot trouble before they begin.

How to Find Your Air Conditioner Cover

If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few tips on choosing the ideal cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Total AC covers can trap moisture inside your equipment, potentially rusting metal parts. It could also make your AC a cozy area 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 stop air, which could cause condensation to build up inside your system. The best type of fabric is one that lets in air, like canvas or mesh.

Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money

When You Should Cover Your Air Conditioner

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 smoothly while keeping grass clippings and sticks 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 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 a blizzard is on the way. Snow and ice that build up 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 system if a severe storm is imminent in Hudsonville. Hail can seriously damage your system’s coils, altering 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, West Michigan Heating & Air Conditioning Services provides assistance. Give us a call at (616) 319-1436 or schedule an appointment online.