As the summer starts to fade and the of fall starts to settle in, residents of Des Moines start preparing their homes and yards for the . For many, that leads to the question of whether they cover their for the winter.

While it may seem like a idea, there are reasons why you shouldn't cover your AC unit in the winter. not being , covering your outdoor air conditioning equipment can cause problems.

Here, the at Web Connect Demo share five reasons why covering your doesn't need to be on your fall to-do list and what you should do instead.

1.

AC units are to withstand harsh weather conditions like snow in the . These are built with materials and that can handle the outdoor elements without damage. The coils and fins of the unit are to resist corrosion, and the housing is to protect the internal from moisture and debris.

2.

One of the reasons you your in the is because doing so can trap moisture—which is what you want in your outdoor unit. That's because inside the unit the perfect conditions for mold and mildew to .

Mold and mildew not only have , but they can also health risks, especially for with respiratory issues or allergies. , the moisture can corrode the internal components of the AC unit.

covering the unit, instead proper drainage and keep the area around the unit of debris, allowing for efficient airflow and preventing moisture buildup.

3. Can Animals

aren't the only ones who for winter. Animals that live around your home are also for a warm, cozy place to for the months. For many , a covered air conditioner is winter .

Birds, mice, chipmunks and even rats make inside covered air conditioners. Animals in a covered can cause problems. can chew through wires, insulation and other , causing damage that may require repairs. Debris animals bring into the AC to a warm and comfortable can airflow and ventilation, the efficiency of the and potentially causing it to overheat. , animal can result in unsanitary conditions and odors.

Leaving your air conditioner uncovered helps , because an uncovered AC less shelter from than a covered unit. That's better for your —and leaves you with less mess to and things to repair .

4. Restricts Airflow

Another reason cover your in the winter is because a cover airflow through the unit. airflow is for the AC system because it heat exchange and the unit to cool . When airflow is , the system has to work harder to the desired temperature, energy consumption and strain on the components.

In addition, if you your without that the unit is covered or because you simply forgot, it could result in a range of problems. One issue is that the of airflow could cause the compressor to overheat, its failure or damage.  That's why it is to ensure the outdoor unit and is not covered to maintain airflow.

5. AC Maintenance Than Covering Your Air Conditioner

The bottom line is, it's more effective to do a little maintenance for your than to cover your AC unit.

There are key maintenance you should prioritize to ensure and longevity of your AC unit. First, it's to your outdoor AC unit regularly and any debris such as leaves, and dirt to proper airflow. Second, and clean the coils, fins and filters to make sure dirt and dust buildup that would heat exchange or airflow.

air conditioning maintenance not only efficiency, but it also helps extend the unit's life span, energy consumption and costly repairs. Rather than using a cover, time and effort into routine air conditioning maintenance is a proactive that can benefit your entire HVAC system in the long run.