With cold weather approaching in Los Angeles, you may be wondering when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you have to cover it at all.

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

Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap moisture. Too much wetness inside your unit can cause internal parts to rust or become moldy.

While installing an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two periods 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 accumulate and lower your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more power to cool your house.

Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from AZ Air Conditioning and Heating heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and examine critical parts. This often allows us to spot trouble before they begin.

Choosing the Right Air Conditioner Cover

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

Avoid Full Covers

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

Complete AC covers can trap condensation inside your system, potentially eating away at metal parts. It could also make your air conditioner a welcoming 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 impede air, which could cause moisture 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 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 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 halt leaves, nuts and other debris from falling into your unit.

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 coming. Snow and ice that build up inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a bad storm is approaching in Los Angeles. Hail can seriously damage your system’s exterior, altering 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, AZ Air Conditioning and Heating gives help. Give us a call at 800-296-5088 or schedule an appointment online.