With cold weather on the horizon in Saint Louis, you may be wondering when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you need to cover it at all.

Your AC unit is a sturdy piece of equipment. It’s created to resist severe weather, including intense temperatures and relentless precipitation.

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

While putting on an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two times of year that are ideal for using 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 build up and obstruct your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more electricity to cool your house.

Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Morgner Inc. Air Conditioning & Heating heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and examine important components. This often allows us to spot problems before they begin.

Find the Right Air Conditioner Cover

If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several ideas on selecting the best cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Complete AC covers can trap water inside your system, potentially corroding metal parts. It could also make your AC a cozy area 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 block air, which could cause water to build up inside your air conditioner. 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 It’s Time to Cover your AC

If you want 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 block leaves, nuts and other waste from dropping into your system.

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 collect inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a strong storm is imminent in Saint Louis. Hail can seriously damage your system’s exterior, altering 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, Morgner Inc. Air Conditioning & Heating gives help. Give us a call at 314-262-4541 or schedule an appointment online.