With cold weather coming in Rio Grande Valley, you may be questioning when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you need to cover it at all.

Your AC unit is a tough piece of equipment. It’s engineered to resist inclement weather, including excessive temperatures and heavy precipitation.

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

While installing an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two seasons that are good to use a cover for a lengthy period of time—fall and summer.

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

Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Cytech Heating & Cooling L.C. heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and inspect important parts. This often allows us to spot problems before they begin.

Choosing the Right Air Conditioner Cover

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

Avoid Full Covers

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

Complete AC covers can trap water inside your unit, potentially eating away at metal components. It could also make your air conditioner an inviting home 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 moisture to build up inside your air conditioner. 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 choose 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 freely 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 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 a snowstorm is on the way. Snow and ice that build up inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a bad storm is coming in Rio Grande Valley. Hail can seriously damage your system’s fins, impacting efficiency.

Related: How Severe Weather Can Lead to AC Repair

We Can Make Sure Your AC Is Always Covered

Whether you have questions about heating and cooling or need air conditioning service, Cytech Heating & Cooling L.C. provides assistance. Give us a call at 956-553-3265 or schedule an appointment online.