With cold weather approaching in Norco and St. Charles Parish, you may be thinking when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you have to cover it at all.

Your AC unit is a sturdy piece of equipment. It’s engineered to resist severe weather, including extreme temperatures and relentless precipitation.

Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap moisture. Extra wetness inside your unit can cause internal parts to rust or turn moldy.

While putting on an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two seasons that are good to use a cover for an extended period of time—fall and summer.

That’s because yard waste during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can accumulate and block your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more energy to cool your residence.

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

How to Find Your Air Conditioner Cover

If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few tips on selecting the ideal cover.

Avoid Full Covers

To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your system and a couple of inches on the side.

Total AC covers can trap water inside your unit, potentially eating away at metal pieces. It could also make your AC a cozy home for animals, 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 allows airflow, 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 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 halt 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 snowstorm is on the way. 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 expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a bad storm is imminent in Norco and St. Charles Parish. Hail can severely damage your system’s exterior, impacting 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, Mayeuxs AC & Heating provides assistance. Give us a call at (985) 764-2426 or schedule an appointment online.