With cold weather on the horizon in Yukon, 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 sturdy piece of equipment. It’s engineered to resist bad} weather, including extreme temperatures and torrential precipitation.

Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap moisture. Too much wetness inside your unit can cause internal components to rust or become moldy.

While putting on an air conditioner cover is a personal 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 block your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more electricity to cool your home.

Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Comfort Concepts Heating & Air Conditioning heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and take a close look at important parts. This often allows us to spot 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 tips on picking the best cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Complete AC covers can trap moisture inside your unit, potentially eating away at metal components. It could also make your AC a cozy area 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 unit. The best type of clot is one that’s breathable, like canvas or mesh.

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

When to Use an Air Conditioner Cover

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 unrestricted 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 debris from dropping 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 heavy snow is coming. Snow and ice that collect inside your system can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and reducing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a bad storm is coming in Yukon. Hail can severely damage your system’s exterior, impacting 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, Comfort Concepts Heating & Air Conditioning offers assistance. Give us a call at 405-494-7444 or schedule an appointment online.