With cold weather on the horizon in Norco and St. Charles Parish, 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 created to resist severe} weather, including intense temperatures and heavy precipitation.

Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap water. Additional wetness inside your system can cause internal parts to rust or become moldy.

While using an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two times of year that are great for using 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 pile up and block your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more energy to cool your house.

Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Mayeuxs AC & Heating heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and examine essential pieces. This often allows us to spot trouble 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 suggestions on picking the ideal cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Total AC covers can trap water inside your unit, potentially corroding metal components. It could also make your AC a welcoming place for vermin, 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 impede air, which could cause moisture 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 to Use an Air Conditioner Cover

If you want 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 sticks 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 snowstorm is approaching. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your system can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a strong storm is approaching in Norco and St. Charles Parish. Hail can critically damage your system’s fins, 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, Mayeuxs AC & Heating offers assistance. Give us a call at (985) 764-2426 or schedule an appointment online.