With cold weather approaching in Front Royal, you may be questioning 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 intense temperatures and heavy precipitation.

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

While using an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two times of year that are ideal 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 block your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more energy to cool your home.

Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Dave's Diversified Services heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and take a close look at critical 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 few suggestions on choosing the best cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Full AC covers can trap water inside your system, potentially rusting metal pieces. It could also make your AC a welcoming area 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 water to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of material 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 choose 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 unrestricted 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 stop leaves, nuts and other waste from getting into your equipment.

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 approaching. Snow and ice that build up inside your air conditioner 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 system if a bad storm is approaching in Front Royal. Hail can seriously damage your system’s coils, altering 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, Dave's Diversified Services offers aid. Give us a call at 540-636-3396 or schedule an appointment online.