With cold weather approaching in Columbia, 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 tough piece of equipment. It’s designed to resist bad weather, including excessive temperatures and relentless precipitation.

Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap condensation. Additional wetness inside your equipment can cause internal components to rust or get moldy.

While using an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two periods that are ideal for using 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 obstruct your system’s airflow. Diminished 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? Annual AC maintenance from Watts Electric & AC heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and take a close look at critical parts. This often allows us to pinpoint issues before they begin.

Choosing the Right Air Conditioner Cover

If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few ideas on choosing the best cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Total AC covers can trap moisture inside your equipment, potentially rusting metal parts. It could also make your system an inviting 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 impede air, which could cause water to build up inside your unit. The best type of material is one that’s breathable, like canvas or mesh.

Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money

When You Should Cover Your Air Conditioner

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 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 stop leaves, nuts and other waste from getting into your system.

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 collect inside your system can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and reducing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a severe storm is imminent in Columbia. Hail can critically damage your system’s coils, affecting efficiency.

Related: How Severe Weather Can Lead to AC Repair

We Can Help Keep Your AC Protected

Whether you have questions about heating and cooling or need air conditioning service, Watts Electric & AC gives help. Give us a call at 601-736-7362 or schedule an appointment online.