With cold weather approaching in East Bernard, you may be questioning when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you have to cover it at all.

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

Sometimes covers do more harm than good 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 times of year that are good to use a cover for a lengthy period of time—fall and summer.

That’s because yard rubbish during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can pile up and block your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more electricity to cool your residence.

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

How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover

If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few 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 equipment and a few inches on the side.

Full AC covers can trap water inside your equipment, potentially rusting metal components. It could also make your system a cozy place for rodents, 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 stop air, which could cause moisture to build up inside your unit. The best type of clot is one that lets in air, 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 install 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 twigs 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 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 accumulate inside your AC can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a bad storm is imminent in East Bernard. Hail can critically damage your system’s exterior, altering 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, E.B. Air offers assistance. Give us a call at 979-335-4262 or schedule an appointment online.