With cold weather on the horizon in Tomball, 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 designed to resist bad weather, including intense temperatures and relentless precipitation.

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

While using an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two seasons that are great for using a cover for a long period of time—fall and summer.

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

Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Premium Air Services LLC heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and take a close look at important parts. This often allows us to spot issues before they begin.

How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover

If you come to the conclusion you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few ideas on picking the ideal cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Complete AC covers can trap water inside your equipment, potentially rusting metal parts. It could also make your air conditioner an inviting home for vermin, 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 impede air, which could cause condensation to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of material 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 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 halt leaves, nuts and other waste 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 approaching. Snow and ice that build up 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 air conditioner if a severe storm is coming in Tomball. Hail can severely damage your system’s fins, altering 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, Premium Air Services LLC provides help. Give us a call at 713-364-9957 or schedule an appointment online.