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 strong piece of equipment. It’s designed to resist bad} weather, including intense temperatures and torrential precipitation.

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

While installing an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two times of year that are good to use a cover for a long period of time—fall and summer.

That’s because yard waste 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 power 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 unit, and take a close look at important pieces. This often allows us to identify problems before they begin.

How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover

If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several ideas on selecting the best cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Full AC covers can trap condensation inside your equipment, potentially corroding metal components. It could also make your air conditioner a welcoming home 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 water to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of material is one that’s breathable, 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 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, damaging condenser coils and reducing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a severe storm is approaching in East Bernard. Hail can severely damage your system’s fins, impacting 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 provides assistance. Give us a call at 979-335-4262 or schedule an appointment online.