With cold weather coming in Albuquerque, you may be thinking 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 bad} weather, including intense temperatures and heavy 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 get moldy.

While putting on an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two periods 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 build up and lower your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more electricity to cool your residence.

Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from I-Deal HVAC heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and inspect important pieces. This often allows us to pinpoint problems before they begin.

How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover

If you come to the conclusion you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few tips on picking the right cover.

Avoid Full Covers

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

Full AC covers can trap condensation inside your equipment, potentially rusting metal parts. It could also make your AC 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 block air, which could cause moisture to build up inside your system. The best type of fabric 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 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 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 debris from getting 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 a snowstorm is coming. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your AC can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and reducing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a severe storm is imminent in Albuquerque. 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, I-Deal HVAC offers aid. Give us a call at 505-445-1250 or schedule an appointment online.