With cold weather coming in Phoenix, you may be questioning when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you need to cover it at all.

Your AC unit is a sturdy piece of equipment. It’s created to resist inclement} weather, including extreme temperatures and torrential precipitation.

Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap water. Too much wetness inside your equipment can cause internal parts to rust or get moldy.

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

That’s because yard debris during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can accumulate and lower 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? Annual AC maintenance from Dial One Mears Air Conditioning & Heating Inc heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and take a close look at critical components. This often allows us to pinpoint problems before they begin.

How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover

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

Avoid Full Covers

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

Total AC covers can trap condensation inside your unit, potentially eating away at metal components. It could also make your system an inviting area for animals, which could eat through 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 moisture to build up inside your system. 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 want to use an air conditioner cover, here are the best times to put it on.

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 block leaves, nuts and other waste from falling 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 heavy snow 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 expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a severe storm is approaching in Phoenix. Hail can critically 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, Dial One Mears Air Conditioning & Heating Inc provides assistance. Give us a call at 602-789-3315 or schedule an appointment online.