With cold weather coming in Mission Viejo, you may be thinking 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 designed to resist severe weather, including extreme temperatures and heavy precipitation.

Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap water. 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 ideal 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 accumulate and obstruct your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more power to cool your home.

Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from 1st Choice Heating & Air Conditioning heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and take a close look at critical pieces. This often allows us to pinpoint problems before they begin.

Choosing the Right Air Conditioner Cover

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

Avoid Full Covers

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

Full AC covers can trap moisture inside your equipment, potentially corroding metal components. It could also make your AC a cozy place for vermin, 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 unit. The best type of material is one that allows airflow, 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 freely 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 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 heavy snow is coming. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your system can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and lowering efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a strong storm is approaching in Mission Viejo. Hail can seriously damage your system’s coils, 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, 1st Choice Heating & Air Conditioning offers aid. Give us a call at 949-204-0859 or schedule an appointment online.