With cold weather on the horizon in Port St. Lucie, 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 created to resist severe weather, including extreme temperatures and heavy precipitation.

Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap condensation. Additional wetness inside your unit can cause internal pieces to rust or turn moldy.

While using an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two periods that are great for using a cover for a long period of time—fall and summer.

That’s because yard rubbish 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 more and may use more power to cool your house.

Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from True Temp heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and take a close look at critical components. This often allows us to spot 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 several suggestions on choosing the best cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Complete AC covers can trap condensation inside your system, potentially rusting metal components. It could also make your system a welcoming place for animals, 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 water to build up inside your air conditioner. 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 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 branches 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 rubbish from dropping into your system.

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, harming condenser coils and lowering efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a bad storm is approaching in Port St. Lucie. Hail can severely damage your system’s exterior, altering efficiency.

Related: How Severe Weather Can Lead to AC Repair

We Can Help Keep Your AC Protected

Whether you have questions about heating and cooling or need air conditioning service, True Temp offers assistance. Give us a call at 772-202-2963 or schedule an appointment online.