With cold weather approaching in Milledgeville and Middle Georgia, you may be wondering 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 created to resist inclement} weather, including extreme temperatures and relentless precipitation.

Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap water. Extra wetness inside your system can cause internal pieces to rust or become moldy.

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

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

Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Air Concepts of Middle Georgia heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and examine critical parts. This often allows us to identify issues 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 few tips on picking the best cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Full AC covers can trap moisture inside your unit, potentially corroding metal pieces. It could also make your AC an inviting 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 impede air, which could cause moisture to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of clot is one that lets in air, 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 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 approaching. Snow and ice that build up inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and lowering efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a severe storm is approaching in Milledgeville and Middle Georgia. Hail can severely 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, Air Concepts of Middle Georgia offers assistance. Give us a call at 478-200-5689 or schedule an appointment online.