With cold weather on the horizon in Tucson and Phoenix, you may be questioning 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 severe weather, including intense temperatures and heavy precipitation.

Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap moisture. Too much wetness inside your equipment can cause internal components to rust or get moldy.

While using an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two seasons that are good to use a cover for a long 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. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more electricity to cool your home.

Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Desert Husky HVAC/R Services heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and inspect critical parts. This often allows us to spot issues before they begin.

Choosing the Right Air Conditioner Cover

If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few suggestions on selecting the right cover.

Avoid Full Covers

To keep air moving, 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 unit, potentially corroding metal parts. It could also make your air conditioner a cozy 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 stop air, which could cause condensation to build up inside your unit. The best type of fabric 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 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 sticks 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 waste 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 a blizzard is approaching. Snow and ice that collect inside your system can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a strong storm is coming in Tucson and Phoenix. Hail can severely damage your system’s exterior, impacting 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, Desert Husky HVAC/R Services offers assistance. Give us a call at 520-416-5415 or schedule an appointment online.