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

Your AC unit is a tough piece of equipment. It’s engineered to resist inclement weather, including intense temperatures and heavy precipitation.

Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap condensation. Too much 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 ideal for using 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 build up and obstruct your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more energy to cool your house.

Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Speedy Air Conditioning heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and inspect critical parts. This often allows us to pinpoint trouble before they begin.

Find the Right Air Conditioner Cover

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

Avoid Full Covers

To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your unit and a couple of inches on the side.

Complete AC covers can trap condensation inside your unit, potentially corroding metal pieces. It could also make your system an inviting home 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 stop air, which could cause water to build up inside your system. The best type of fabric is one that’s breathable, like canvas or mesh.

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

When It’s Time to Cover your AC

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 smoothly 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 halt leaves, nuts and other waste from getting 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 blizzard is on the way. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your AC can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and lowering efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a severe storm is approaching in Naples. Hail can severely damage your system’s coils, affecting 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, Speedy Air Conditioning provides help. Give us a call at 239-244-3439 or schedule an appointment online.