With cold weather approaching in Frederick, you may be thinking 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 designed to resist severe weather, including intense temperatures and relentless precipitation.

Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap moisture. Too much wetness inside your system can cause internal parts to rust or turn moldy.

While using an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two times of year that are ideal for using a cover for a lengthy 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 power to cool your home.

Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from May's Heating & Air heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and inspect important components. This often allows us to pinpoint trouble before they begin.

Choosing the Right Air Conditioner Cover

If you come to the conclusion you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few suggestions on choosing the best cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Full AC covers can trap water inside your system, potentially rusting metal parts. It could also make your system an inviting home for vermin, 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 block 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 It’s Time to Cover your AC

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 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 block 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 on the way. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and lowering efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a severe storm is coming in Frederick. Hail can severely damage your system’s coils, 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, May's Heating & Air offers aid. Give us a call at 301-690-0397 or schedule an appointment online.