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

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

Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap water. Additional wetness inside your system can cause internal parts to rust or become moldy.

While putting on an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two times of year that are ideal for using 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 build up and obstruct your system’s airflow. Diminished 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? Annual AC maintenance from JTech Mechanical heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and inspect important pieces. This often allows us to pinpoint problems before they begin.

Choosing the Right Air Conditioner Cover

If you come to the conclusion you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several tips on choosing the best cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Full AC covers can trap moisture inside your equipment, potentially rusting metal parts. It could also make your system a welcoming place for animals, which could sever wires.

Related: What New Homeowners Need to Know About Their Air Conditioner

Don’t Use Plastic or Vinyl Covers

Plastic or vinyl covers impede air, which could cause moisture to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of material is one that allows airflow, 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 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 block leaves, nuts and other rubbish from getting 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 blizzard is coming. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your AC can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and lowering efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a bad storm is imminent in Magnolia. Hail can severely damage your system’s fins, altering 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, JTech Mechanical offers help. Give us a call at 281-231-8768 or schedule an appointment online.