With cold weather approaching in Phoenix, 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 strong piece of equipment. It’s created to resist severe weather, including extreme temperatures and relentless precipitation.

Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap moisture. Additional wetness inside your equipment can cause internal pieces to rust or become moldy.

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

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

Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Dial One Mears Air Conditioning & Heating Inc heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and take a close look at essential pieces. This often allows us to spot issues 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 few suggestions on picking the best cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Full AC covers can trap water inside your equipment, potentially rusting metal components. It could also make your air conditioner an inviting place 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 water 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 It’s Time to Cover your AC

If you want 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 waste from dropping 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 build up inside your AC can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and reducing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a bad storm is coming in Phoenix. Hail can severely damage your system’s coils, 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, Dial One Mears Air Conditioning & Heating Inc provides aid. Give us a call at 602-789-3315 or schedule an appointment online.