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

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

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

That’s because yard debris 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 harder and may use more electricity to cool your residence.

Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Air Service Co. heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and examine critical components. This often allows us to spot trouble before they begin.

Choosing the Right Air Conditioner Cover

If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several suggestions on choosing the right cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Full AC covers can trap water inside your system, potentially eating away at metal parts. It could also make your air conditioner a welcoming home for vermin, which could eat through 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 water to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of clot 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 use it.

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 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 block leaves, nuts and other waste 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 a blizzard is on the way. Snow and ice that build up inside your AC can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and reducing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a severe storm is imminent in Muldrow. Hail can seriously damage your system’s exterior, affecting 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, Air Service Co. offers aid. Give us a call at 918-212-8943 or schedule an appointment online.