With cold weather coming in Rapid City, you may be questioning when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you should even cover it at all.

Your AC unit is a strong 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 moisture. Too much wetness inside your equipment can cause internal components to rust or turn moldy.

While using an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two seasons that are ideal for using a cover for a long 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 house.

Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Street Heating and Cooling heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and take a close look at critical parts. This often allows us to identify problems before they begin.

How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover

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

Avoid Full Covers

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

Complete AC covers can trap moisture inside your unit, potentially rusting metal components. It could also make your system a cozy home 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 impede 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 decide 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 freely 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 block leaves, nuts and other waste from getting 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 blizzard is approaching. Snow and ice that build up inside your system can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and reducing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a severe storm is imminent in Rapid City. Hail can seriously damage your system’s exterior, 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, Street Heating and Cooling offers aid. Give us a call at 605-206-3915 or schedule an appointment online.