With cold weather coming in Belton, you may be wondering when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you should even cover it at all.

Your AC unit is a tough piece of equipment. It’s designed to resist bad} weather, including excessive temperatures and torrential precipitation.

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

While putting on an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two times of year that are great 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 obstruct your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more power to cool your residence.

Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Myers Furnace Company heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and examine important components. This often allows us to identify trouble before they begin.

How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover

If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple tips on picking the best cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Full AC covers can trap water inside your equipment, potentially rusting metal pieces. It could also make your AC an inviting area for animals, 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 condensation to build up inside your unit. 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 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 stop leaves, nuts and other debris from getting 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 a snowstorm is approaching. 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 severe storm is imminent in Belton. Hail can seriously damage your system’s exterior, 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, Myers Furnace Company offers help. Give us a call at 816-249-1619 or schedule an appointment online.