With cold weather on the horizon in Shamokin and Sunbury, 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 tough piece of equipment. It’s designed to resist bad weather, including intense temperatures and relentless precipitation.

Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap condensation. Additional wetness inside your system can cause internal components to rust or get moldy.

While using an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two times of year that are ideal for using 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. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more energy to cool your residence.

Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from LTS Plumbing & Heating Inc. heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and inspect critical components. This often allows us to spot trouble before they begin.

Find the Right Air Conditioner Cover

If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple ideas on selecting the ideal cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Total AC covers can trap moisture inside your equipment, potentially eating away at metal parts. It could also make your AC a welcoming place 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 block air, which could cause water to build up inside your unit. 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 want 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 smoothly while keeping grass clippings and twigs 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 waste 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 coming. Snow and ice that build up inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and reducing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a severe storm is imminent in Shamokin and Sunbury. Hail can seriously damage your system’s exterior, altering 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, LTS Plumbing & Heating Inc. offers help. Give us a call at 570-648-0748 or schedule an appointment online.