With cold weather on the horizon in Cambridge, you may be wondering when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you have to cover it at all.

Your AC unit is a sturdy piece of equipment. It’s engineered to resist severe} weather, including intense temperatures and heavy precipitation.

Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap water. Too much wetness inside your unit can cause internal parts to rust or become moldy.

While installing an air conditioner cover is your own 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 rubbish during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can pile up and block your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more power to cool your residence.

Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Pliescott HVAC Services LLC heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and take a close look at important parts. This often allows us to identify trouble before they begin.

How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover

If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few ideas on choosing the best cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Total AC covers can trap moisture inside your system, potentially corroding metal pieces. It could also make your AC 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 impede air, which could cause condensation to build up inside your unit. 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 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 smoothly 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 halt leaves, nuts and other rubbish from dropping 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 coming. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your AC can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a strong storm is approaching in Cambridge. Hail can seriously damage your system’s exterior, 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, Pliescott HVAC Services LLC gives assistance. Give us a call at 410-228-4822 or schedule an appointment online.