With cold weather coming in Heflin, 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 sturdy piece of equipment. It’s engineered to resist inclement} weather, including extreme temperatures and torrential precipitation.

Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap condensation. Too much wetness inside your system can cause internal parts to rust or get moldy.

While putting on an air conditioner cover is an individual 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 debris during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can pile up and lower your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more power to cool your house.

Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Bain Heating & Air Conditioning heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and inspect critical pieces. This often allows us to pinpoint issues before they begin.

How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover

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

Avoid Full Covers

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

Full AC covers can trap moisture inside your system, potentially corroding metal pieces. It could also make your system an inviting home for rodents, 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 block air, which could cause moisture to build up inside your unit. 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 to Use an Air Conditioner Cover

If you choose 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 freely 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 stop leaves, nuts and other rubbish from falling 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 blizzard is on the way. Snow and ice that collect inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a strong storm is imminent in Heflin. Hail can severely damage your system’s fins, altering 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, Bain Heating & Air Conditioning offers help. Give us a call at 256-270-1196 or schedule an appointment online.