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

Your AC unit is a strong piece of equipment. It’s engineered to resist severe} weather, including extreme temperatures and torrential precipitation.

Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap moisture. Extra wetness inside your system can cause internal parts to rust or turn moldy.

While installing an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two times of year that are ideal for using a cover for a long 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 electricity to cool your house.

Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from May's Heating & Air heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and inspect important parts. This often allows us to spot problems before they begin.

How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover

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

Avoid Full Covers

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

Complete AC covers can trap moisture inside your unit, potentially corroding metal parts. It could also make your system a cozy home for rodents, 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 fabric is one that lets in air, 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 install it.

Cover Your Air Conditioner During Summer

A lightweight mesh cover during the summer allows your air conditioner to run smoothly 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 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 blizzard is approaching. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and lowering efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a strong storm is approaching in Frederick. Hail can severely damage your system’s exterior, impacting 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 gives assistance. Give us a call at 301-690-0397 or schedule an appointment online.