With cold weather coming in Cambridge, 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 sturdy piece of equipment. It’s engineered to resist severe weather, including excessive temperatures and torrential precipitation.

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

While using an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two times of year that are good to use 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 build up and block your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more electricity to cool your residence.

Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Pliescott HVAC Services LLC heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and examine essential pieces. This often allows us to pinpoint trouble before they begin.

How to Find Your Air Conditioner Cover

If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple suggestions on choosing the ideal cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Complete AC covers can trap moisture inside your unit, potentially eating away at metal pieces. It could also make your system an inviting place 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 stop air, which could cause water to build up inside your system. The best type of material is one that’s breathable, 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 unrestricted 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 stop leaves, nuts and other waste 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 air conditioner can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and reducing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a severe storm is coming in Cambridge. Hail can severely damage your system’s coils, impacting 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, Pliescott HVAC Services LLC gives aid. Give us a call at 410-228-4822 or schedule an appointment online.