With cold weather on the horizon in West Valley City, 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 tough piece of equipment. It’s engineered to resist severe} weather, including extreme temperatures and relentless precipitation.

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

While using an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two seasons that are good to use 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 lower your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more energy to cool your house.

Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Select Comfort Systems heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and inspect critical components. This often allows us to spot trouble before they begin.

How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover

If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several tips on choosing the ideal cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Full AC covers can trap water inside your system, potentially corroding metal parts. It could also make your air conditioner a welcoming place for rodents, which could chew 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 system. The best type of clot is one that allows airflow, 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 smoothly 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 block leaves, nuts and other debris from dropping 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 snowstorm is approaching. Snow and ice that build up inside your AC can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and reducing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a bad storm is approaching in West Valley City. Hail can seriously 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, Select Comfort Systems provides help. Give us a call at 801-305-4777 or schedule an appointment online.