With cold weather coming in Moline, you may be thinking 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 excessive temperatures and torrential precipitation.

Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap water. Additional wetness inside your unit can cause internal parts to rust or become moldy.

While installing an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two times of year that are good to use a cover for an extended period of time—fall and summer.

That’s because yard rubbish 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 house.

Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from J.L. Brady Company LLC heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and inspect important components. This often allows us to spot issues before they begin.

How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover

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

Avoid Full Covers

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

Total AC covers can trap water inside your system, potentially corroding metal components. It could also make your air conditioner 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 impede air, which could cause moisture to build up inside your unit. 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 to Use an Air Conditioner Cover

If you want 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 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 stop leaves, nuts and other waste from getting 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 approaching. Snow and ice that build up inside your AC 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 system if a severe storm is approaching in Moline. Hail can severely damage your system’s coils, affecting efficiency.

Related: How Severe Weather Can Lead to AC Repair

We Can Help Your AC System Run Efficiently

Whether you have questions about heating and cooling or need air conditioning service, J.L. Brady Company LLC provides help. Give us a call at 309-517-7511 or schedule an appointment online.