With cold weather coming in Lake Worth, you may be questioning 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 engineered to resist inclement} weather, including excessive temperatures and relentless precipitation.

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

While installing an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two times of year 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 build up and lower your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more energy to cool your house.

Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Smyth Air Conditioning heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and inspect essential pieces. This often allows us to identify problems before they begin.

How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover

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

Full AC covers can trap condensation inside your equipment, potentially rusting metal pieces. It could also make your system a cozy 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 block air, which could cause moisture 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 to Use an Air Conditioner Cover

If you decide 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 freely while keeping grass clippings and branches 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 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 blizzard is approaching. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your system can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a severe storm is approaching in Lake Worth. Hail can severely damage your system’s exterior, altering 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, Smyth Air Conditioning gives help. Give us a call at 561-533-6066 or schedule an appointment online.