With cold weather approaching in Neptune City, you may be wondering when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you need to cover it at all.

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

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

While using an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two periods that are ideal for using a cover for an extended period of time—fall and summer.

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

Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Aggressive Mechanical heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and inspect critical components. This often allows us to pinpoint issues before they begin.

How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover

If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several ideas on picking the best cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Complete AC covers can trap condensation inside your equipment, potentially corroding metal parts. It could also make your AC a welcoming place for vermin, which could sever 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 condensation to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of clot 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 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 unrestricted while keeping grass clippings and branches 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 falling into your system.

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 accumulate inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and lowering efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a strong storm is coming in Neptune City. Hail can seriously damage your system’s coils, 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, Aggressive Mechanical gives aid. Give us a call at 732-806-5536 or schedule an appointment online.