With cold weather on the horizon in Heflin, 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 strong piece of equipment. It’s created to resist inclement weather, including excessive temperatures and heavy precipitation.

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

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

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

Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Bain Heating & Air Conditioning heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and inspect essential pieces. This often allows us to identify 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 several tips on selecting the right cover.

Avoid Full Covers

To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your system 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 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 unit. 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 unrestricted 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 debris from getting 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 heavy snow is coming. Snow and ice that build up 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 bad storm is approaching in Heflin. Hail can seriously damage your system’s exterior, affecting 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 gives help. Give us a call at 256-270-1196 or schedule an appointment online.