With cold weather approaching in Payson, you may be questioning 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 created to resist bad} weather, including intense temperatures and relentless precipitation.

Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap condensation. Additional wetness inside your unit can cause internal components 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 long period of time—fall and summer.

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

Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from North Mechanical Heating and Cooling heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and take a close look at important 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 several suggestions on choosing 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.

Complete AC covers can trap water inside your unit, potentially eating away at metal parts. It could also make your air conditioner 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 air conditioner. The best type of material 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 choose 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 freely 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 halt leaves, nuts and other debris from falling 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 snowstorm is on the way. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your AC can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and lowering efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a severe storm is coming in Payson. Hail can severely damage your system’s fins, altering 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, North Mechanical Heating and Cooling provides assistance. Give us a call at 928-263-8570 or schedule an appointment online.