With cold weather coming in Omaha, 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 strong piece of equipment. It’s engineered to resist severe weather, including extreme temperatures and relentless precipitation.

Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap condensation. Extra wetness inside your unit can cause internal parts to rust or become moldy.

While installing an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two seasons that are great for using a cover for a long period of time—fall and summer.

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

Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Interstate Heating & Air Conditioning heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and inspect critical pieces. This often allows us to pinpoint problems before they begin.

Find the Right Air Conditioner Cover

If you come to the conclusion you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several tips on selecting the right cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Full AC covers can trap water inside your system, potentially rusting metal parts. It could also make your air conditioner a welcoming place for rodents, 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 stop air, which could cause condensation to build up inside your system. The best type of material is one that allows airflow, like canvas or mesh.

Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money

When It’s Time to Cover your AC

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 stop leaves, nuts and other rubbish 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 snowstorm is coming. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and lowering efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a severe storm is approaching in Omaha. Hail can severely damage your system’s coils, 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, Interstate Heating & Air Conditioning gives help. Give us a call at 402-509-5940 or schedule an appointment online.