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

Your AC unit is a sturdy piece of equipment. It’s created to resist inclement weather, including excessive temperatures and relentless precipitation.

Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap moisture. Too much wetness inside your equipment can cause internal components to rust or turn 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 an extended period of time—fall and summer.

That’s because yard waste 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 harder and may use more power to cool your residence.

Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from E.B. Air heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and inspect critical components. This often allows us to identify problems before they begin.

How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover

If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few ideas on selecting 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.

Total AC covers can trap water inside your unit, potentially rusting metal pieces. It could also make your system an inviting 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 block air, which could cause condensation 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 It’s Time to Cover your AC

If you want 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 sticks 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 falling 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 a snowstorm is coming. Snow and ice that collect inside your AC can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and lowering efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a severe storm is coming in East Bernard. Hail can seriously damage your system’s fins, impacting efficiency.

Related: How Severe Weather Can Lead to AC Repair

We Can Make Sure Your AC Is Always Covered

Whether you have questions about heating and cooling or need air conditioning service, E.B. Air provides help. Give us a call at 979-335-4262 or schedule an appointment online.