With cold weather on the horizon in Mount Pleasant, you may be wondering when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you should even 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. Additional wetness inside your system can cause internal components to rust or become moldy.

While installing an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two periods that are great 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 pile up and lower your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more electricity to cool your house.

Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Olde Towne Heating & Air heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and inspect essential pieces. This often allows us to pinpoint trouble before they begin.

Find the Right Air Conditioner Cover

If you come to the conclusion you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple suggestions on selecting the ideal cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Full AC covers can trap moisture inside your unit, potentially rusting metal parts. It could also make your system a welcoming place 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 moisture to build up inside your system. 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 You Should Cover Your Air Conditioner

If you choose 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 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 stop leaves, nuts and other debris from falling 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 approaching. Snow and ice that build up 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 system if a bad storm is approaching in Mount Pleasant. Hail can critically damage your system’s fins, affecting 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, Olde Towne Heating & Air provides aid. Give us a call at 843-485-0967 or schedule an appointment online.