With cold weather approaching in Bishop, 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 created to resist severe weather, including extreme 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 become moldy.

While using an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two seasons that are good to use 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 lower your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more electricity to cool your residence.

Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Bishop Heating & Air Conditioning heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and take a close look at essential parts. This often allows us to pinpoint 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 a couple ideas on selecting 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.

Complete AC covers can trap water inside your system, potentially eating away at metal parts. 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 water 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 It’s Time to Cover your AC

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 smoothly 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 halt leaves, nuts and other rubbish 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 accumulate inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a bad storm is imminent in Bishop. Hail can critically damage your system’s exterior, affecting 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, Bishop Heating & Air Conditioning gives aid. Give us a call at 760-784-9034 or schedule an appointment online.