With cold weather coming in Seymour, 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 sturdy piece of equipment. It’s engineered to resist severe weather, including excessive temperatures and heavy precipitation.

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

While using an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two periods that are good to use 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 lower your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more power to cool your residence.

Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Diedrick's Heating and Air Conditioning heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and inspect critical parts. This often allows us to identify problems before they begin.

Choosing the Right Air Conditioner Cover

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

Avoid Full Covers

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

Total AC covers can trap moisture inside your equipment, potentially rusting metal parts. It could also make your system an inviting place for vermin, 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 unit. The best type of material is one that lets in air, like canvas or mesh.

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

When It’s Time to Cover your AC

If you want to use an air conditioner cover, here are the best times to put it o