With cold weather on the horizon in Manassas, 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 designed to resist bad weather, including excessive temperatures and torrential precipitation.

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

While installing an air conditioner cover is a personal 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 harder and may use more energy to cool your home.

Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Woody's Sudden Service heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and take a close look at critical parts. This often allows us to pinpoint problems before they begin.

Find the Right Air Conditioner Cover

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

Avoid Full Covers

To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your unit and a couple of 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 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 block air, which could cause moisture to build up inside your system. The best type of material 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 choose to use an air conditioner cover, here are the best times to put it on.

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 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 debris 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 heavy snow is on the way. Snow and ice that build up inside your AC can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and reducing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a bad storm is coming in Manassas. Hail can severely damage your system’s coils, affecting 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, Woody's Sudden Service provides aid. Give us a call at 703-278-2036 or schedule an appointment online.