With cold weather coming in Fredericksburg, you may be thinking 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 severe weather, including extreme temperatures and torrential precipitation.

Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap condensation. Extra wetness inside your unit can cause internal pieces to rust or get moldy.

While installing an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two periods 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 pile up and lower your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more power to cool your residence.

Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Childress Heating & AC heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and take a close look at critical parts. This often allows us to spot problems before they begin.

Find the Right Air Conditioner Cover

If you come to the conclusion you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple ideas on choosing the right cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Complete AC covers can trap condensation inside your unit, potentially corroding metal parts. It could also make your system an inviting area for vermin, 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 unit. The best type of fabric is one that’s breathable, like canvas or mesh.

Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money

When You Should Cover Your Air Conditioner

If you choose 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 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 debris from dropping 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 snowstorm is coming. Snow and ice that build up inside your AC can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a bad storm is coming in Fredericksburg. Hail can severely damage your system’s fins, 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, Childress Heating & AC offers assistance. Give us a call at 540-675-4306 or schedule an appointment online.