With cold weather coming in Albuquerque, 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 strong piece of equipment. It’s engineered to resist bad weather, including extreme temperatures and torrential precipitation.

Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap condensation. Additional wetness inside your unit can cause internal parts to rust or turn moldy.

While using an air conditioner cover is your own 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 rubbish during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can accumulate and block your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more electricity to cool your house.

Wanting 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 examine essential components. This often allows us to spot trouble before they begin.

How to Find Your Air Conditioner Cover

If you come to the conclusion you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several suggestions on selecting the ideal 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 system, potentially eating away at metal parts. It could also make your AC a cozy home for rodents, 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 block air, which could cause condensation to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of clot is one that lets in air, like canvas or mesh.

Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money

When You Should Cover Your Air Conditioner

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 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 blizzard is on the way. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your AC can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and lowering efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a severe storm is imminent in Albuquerque. Hail can seriously damage your system’s exterior, impacting 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 provides assistance. Give us a call at 505-317-9598 or schedule an appointment online.