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

Your AC unit is a sturdy piece of equipment. It’s created to resist inclement weather, including excessive temperatures and relentless 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 putting on an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two seasons that are good to use a cover for a lengthy period of time—fall and summer.

That’s because yard debris 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 residence.

Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Clean Air HVAC heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and examine important parts. This often allows us to identify problems before they begin.

Choosing the Right Air Conditioner Cover

If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several ideas on choosing the right cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Total AC covers can trap condensation inside your unit, potentially rusting metal pieces. It could also make your AC a cozy area 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 moisture to build up inside your system. The best type of material is one that’s breathable, like canvas or mesh.

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

When It’s Time to Cover your AC

If you choose 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 stop leaves, nuts and other waste 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 a blizzard is coming. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a strong storm is approaching in Pacheco. Hail can critically 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, Clean Air HVAC provides aid. Give us a call at 925-233-6238 or schedule an appointment online.