With cold weather approaching in Alice, you may be thinking 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 severe weather, including excessive temperatures and heavy precipitation.

Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap water. Additional wetness inside your unit can cause internal pieces to rust or turn moldy.

While installing an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two seasons that are good to use a cover for a long period of time—fall and summer.

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

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

How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover

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

Avoid Full Covers

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

Total AC covers can trap condensation inside your unit, potentially eating away at metal components. It could also make your AC a welcoming area 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 clot 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 use 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 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 waste 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 blizzard is approaching. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your system can melt and refreeze, breaking 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 coming in Alice. Hail can seriously damage your system’s exterior, 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, Rescue Heating & Air gives assistance. Give us a call at 361-265-4371 or schedule an appointment online.