With cold weather coming in Eastland, 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 engineered to resist inclement weather, including extreme temperatures and torrential precipitation.

Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap condensation. Too much wetness inside your system can cause internal pieces to rust or become moldy.

While putting on an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two periods that are ideal for using a cover for an extended period of time—fall and summer.

That’s because yard debris during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can pile up and lower your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more energy to cool your home.

Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from J & J Air Conditioning heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and take a close look at important pieces. This often allows us to spot issues before they begin.

Find the Right Air Conditioner Cover

If you come to the conclusion you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple tips on selecting the ideal cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Complete AC covers can trap moisture inside your system, potentially eating away at metal components. It could also make your air conditioner an inviting home for rodents, 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 air conditioner. The best type of clot is one that’s breathable, like canvas or mesh.

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

When You Should Cover Your Air Conditioner

If you decide to use an air conditioner cover, here are the best times to use it.

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 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 debris from falling into your equipment.

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 heavy snow is coming. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your air conditioner 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 air conditioner if a bad storm is imminent in Eastland. Hail can severely damage your system’s coils, 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, J & J Air Conditioning provides aid. Give us a call at 254-355-3833 or schedule an appointment online.