With cold weather coming in York, 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 tough piece of equipment. It’s created to resist inclement} weather, including extreme temperatures and relentless precipitation.

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

While using an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two times of year that are great for using a cover for a long period of time—fall and summer.

That’s because yard waste during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can accumulate and obstruct your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more energy to cool your residence.

Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Strine's heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and examine essential pieces. This often allows us to identify problems before they begin.

How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover

If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few tips 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 a couple of inches on the side.

Total AC covers can trap water inside your system, potentially corroding metal pieces. It could also make your AC 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 stop air, which could cause moisture 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 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 smoothly 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 block leaves, nuts and other rubbish from falling 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 approaching. Snow and ice that build up inside your AC can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and reducing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a bad storm is imminent in York. Hail can severely damage your system’s exterior, altering 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, Strine's gives aid. Give us a call at 717-383-4479 or schedule an appointment online.