With cold weather approaching in Sacramento, 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 sturdy piece of equipment. It’s engineered to resist inclement weather, including excessive temperatures and torrential precipitation.

Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap moisture. Extra wetness inside your equipment can cause internal pieces to rust or get moldy.

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

That’s because yard waste during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can build up and block your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more electricity to cool your house.

Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Bishop’s HVAC heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and examine essential pieces. This often allows us to spot problems before they begin.

Choosing the Right Air Conditioner Cover

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

Avoid Full Covers

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

Full AC covers can trap water inside your system, potentially corroding metal components. It could also make your air conditioner an inviting area 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 moisture to build up inside your air conditioner. 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 to Use an Air Conditioner Cover

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 block leaves, nuts and other debris 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 coming. Snow and ice that build up inside your system can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a severe storm is coming in Sacramento. Hail can critically damage your system’s exterior, altering efficiency.

Related: How Severe Weather Can Lead to AC Repair

We Can Make Sure Your AC Is Always Covered

Whether you have questions about heating and cooling or need air conditioning service, Bishop’s HVAC gives assistance. Give us a call at 916-591-6889 or schedule an appointment online.