With cold weather approaching in Buellton, 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 tough piece of equipment. It’s designed to resist inclement} weather, including excessive temperatures and relentless precipitation.

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

While installing an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two times of year that are good to use a cover for a lengthy period of time—fall and summer.

That’s because yard waste during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can pile up and block your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more electricity to cool your house.

Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Allstar Heating & Air Conditioning heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and take a close look at important components. This often allows us to spot problems before they begin.

How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover

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

Avoid Full Covers

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

Full AC covers can trap condensation inside your system, potentially rusting metal parts. It could also make your air conditioner an inviting place 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 impede air, which could cause water to build up inside your system. The best type of material 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 choose 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 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 block 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 a blizzard is approaching. Snow and ice that build up inside your AC 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 AC if a strong storm is approaching in Buellton. Hail can critically damage your system’s fins, affecting 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, Allstar Heating & Air Conditioning offers assistance. Give us a call at 805-242-9638 or schedule an appointment online.