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

Your AC unit is a tough piece of equipment. It’s designed to resist bad weather, including extreme temperatures and heavy precipitation.

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

While installing an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two periods that are great for using 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 accumulate and lower your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more power to cool your home.

Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from H&C Heating and Cooling heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and take a close look at critical components. This often allows us to pinpoint problems 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 best cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Full AC covers can trap water inside your system, potentially eating away at metal components. It could also make your system a cozy area 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 system. 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 You Should Cover Your Air Conditioner

If you want 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 freely 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 block leaves, nuts and other debris 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 on the way. Snow and ice that build up inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and lowering efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a bad storm is coming in Laurel. Hail can severely damage your system’s fins, 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, H&C Heating and Cooling offers help. Give us a call at 301-960-3247 or schedule an appointment online.