With cold weather coming in Wilkes Barre and Scranton, 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 inclement weather, including intense temperatures and relentless precipitation.

Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap moisture. Extra wetness inside your system can cause internal parts to rust or turn moldy.

While putting on an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two seasons that are good to use a cover for an extended period of time—fall and summer.

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

Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from GLR Mechanical heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and take a close look at critical parts. This often allows us to identify problems before they begin.

Find the Right Air Conditioner Cover

If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple suggestions on picking the ideal cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Full AC covers can trap moisture inside your equipment, potentially corroding metal pieces. It could also make your air conditioner a welcoming 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 impede air, which could cause moisture to build up inside your air conditioner. 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 install it.

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 halt leaves, nuts and other rubbish from falling 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 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 anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a bad storm is coming in Wilkes Barre and Scranton. Hail can severely damage your system’s exterior, affecting efficiency.

Related: How Severe Weather Can Lead to AC Repair

We Can Make Sure Your AC Is Always Covered

Whether you have questions about heating and cooling or need air conditioning service, GLR Mechanical gives assistance. Give us a call at 570-309-0403 or schedule an appointment online.