With cold weather coming in Front Royal, 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 strong piece of equipment. It’s designed to resist bad weather, including excessive temperatures and heavy precipitation.

Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap condensation. Too much wetness inside your equipment can cause internal parts to rust or become moldy.

While using an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two periods that are good to use a cover for a long period of time—fall and summer.

That’s because yard waste during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can accumulate and block your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more power to cool your home.

Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Dave's Diversified Services heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and take a close look at essential pieces. This often allows us to spot trouble before they begin.

How to Find Your Air Conditioner Cover

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

Avoid Full Covers

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

Full AC covers can trap condensation inside your unit, potentially corroding metal pieces. It could also make your AC a cozy home for rodents, 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 clot 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 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 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 AC can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a bad storm is coming in Front Royal. Hail can seriously damage your system’s fins, altering 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, Dave's Diversified Services provides assistance. Give us a call at 540-636-3396 or schedule an appointment online.