With cold weather on the horizon in Temple/Belton , 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 strong piece of equipment. It’s engineered to resist bad weather, including intense temperatures and heavy precipitation.

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

While installing an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two times of year that are ideal for using a cover for an extended period of time—fall and summer.

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

Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Bell Air Conditioning Inc heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and take a close look at essential parts. This often allows us to pinpoint trouble before they begin.

How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover

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

Avoid Full Covers

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

Complete AC covers can trap moisture inside your unit, potentially rusting metal components. It could also make your system an inviting place for rodents, 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 water to build up inside your system. The best type of fabric is one that lets in air, like canvas or mesh.

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

When It’s Time to Cover your AC

If you decide 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 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 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 build up inside your AC can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a bad storm is coming in Temple/Belton . Hail can severely damage your system’s coils, impacting efficiency.

Related: How Severe Weather Can Lead to AC Repair

We Can Help Keep Your AC Protected

Whether you have questions about heating and cooling or need air conditioning service, Bell Air Conditioning Inc gives aid. Give us a call at 254-307-9572 or schedule an appointment online.