With cold weather on the horizon in Lafayette, you may be wondering when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you need to cover it at all.

Your AC unit is a strong piece of equipment. It’s created to resist inclement weather, including extreme temperatures and relentless precipitation.

Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap moisture. Too much wetness inside your equipment can cause internal parts to rust or turn moldy.

While putting on an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two periods that are great for using a cover for an extended period of time—fall and summer.

That’s because yard debris during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can pile up and obstruct your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more power to cool your home.

Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from AC Sales heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and take a close look at essential components. This often allows us to spot trouble before they begin.

How to Find Your Air Conditioner Cover

If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several suggestions on picking the right cover.

Avoid Full Covers

To keep air circulating, 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 corroding metal components. It could also make your AC a welcoming area 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 air conditioner. 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 You Should Cover Your Air Conditioner

If you decide to use an air conditioner cover, here are the best times to install it.

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 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 block leaves, nuts and other debris from dropping 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 collect inside your system can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and reducing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a severe storm is approaching in Lafayette. Hail can seriously damage your system’s coils, affecting 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, AC Sales offers assistance. Give us a call at (337) 234-2345 or schedule an appointment online.