With cold weather coming in Pacheco, you may be wondering 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 engineered to resist severe} weather, including excessive temperatures and relentless precipitation.

Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap water. Extra wetness inside your system can cause internal components to rust or become moldy.

While putting on an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two periods that are good to use a cover for a lengthy period of time—fall and summer.

That’s because yard rubbish 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 harder and may use more electricity to cool your residence.

Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Clean Air HVAC heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and examine essential pieces. This often allows us to spot trouble before they begin.

How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover

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

Avoid Full Covers

To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your system and a couple of inches on the side.

Total AC covers can trap condensation inside your system, potentially rusting metal components. It could also make your system a cozy home 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 impede air, which could cause water to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of clot is one that’s breathable, like canvas or mesh.

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

When to Use an Air Conditioner Cover

If you decide 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 getting 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 blizzard is approaching. Snow and ice that collect inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and reducing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a bad storm is approaching in Pacheco. Hail can seriously damage your system’s coils, 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 offers assistance. Give us a call at 925-233-6238 or schedule an appointment online.