Winter is approaching and soon the air-conditioners will be put to rest for the next 6-8 months. While the indoor unit remains indoors, protected from sunlight, dust and moisture, the outdoor unit stays out, facing corrosive degradation due to dust, smog, bird droppings, sunlight and moisture.
This repeated neglect over the years can damage the sensitive electronic components, compressor and the fan in the outdoor unit. A protective cover, that costs around Rs 300, can be a lost-cost solution to protect the outdoor unit from corrosion and damage due to elements and keep it in perfect working condition till you need it again next summer.
Why an unused AC is at risk in winter
During regular use in summer, the fan in the outdoor unit works continuously, blowing away dust and pollutants. Once the unit is shut for a longer time, dust and grime accumulate on the fan blades and the cooling fins. Coupled with moisture and oily vapors, these pollutants tend to form a thick and sticky layer on all surfaces.
This buildup reduces the heat echange capacity of the outdoor unit, making your AC consume more power when you turn it on the next summer. Also below the sticky layer of pollutants, corrosion starts, leading to referigerant leaks. Moreover, water can also reach the wiring and circuit boards inside causing a short circuit or a compressor damage the next time the unit is switched on.
Most users discover the damage only when they switch the unit on the next season, requiring expensive repairs in peak season.
How much it can cost you
ProNearMe did an analysis in 2026 to find out the cost of repairs due to damage caused by dirt and rust. These estimates are for a 1.5 ton split AC.
| Repair Type | Estimated Cost |
| Descaling and cleaning the condenser coil | Rs 1500-3000 |
| New outdoor fan motor | Rs 1800-4500 |
| New PCB for an inverter AC | Rs 3500-8500 |
| New condenser coil | Rs 4500-9000 |
| New compressor | Rs 10000-18000 |
Another estimate by The Chill Spot shows the a new compressor for a 1.5 ton inverter AC can cost as high as Rs. 22000.
Picking a suitable AC outdoor unit cover
Ecommerce platforms such as Amazon and Flipkart offer PVC covers for AC outdoor units starting from Rs. 250-300. Branded options may cost slightly higher. For example, on Panasonic’s online store a polyester AC outdoor cover can cost approximately Rs. 325. The cover should match the AC specifications such as tonnage, brand and model to ensure it fits properly.
How to cover the outdoor unit correctly
Before covering the outdoor AC unit for the season, make sure it is wiped clean of any dust and pollutants and completely dry. Any trapped moisture under the cover can cause more corrosion than it prevents. You should turn off the main switch or the MCB of the AC for the season.
If you are using a completely waterproof cover, keep some loose space at the bottom to allow air circulation inside the unit during storage.
Do not miss this
If your AC offers both, cooling and heating, and you intend to use the heating function of the AC during winter, then don’t cover the outdoor unit as it can block the airflow during operation.
Never operate the AC with the outdoor unit cover on in any season. This could lead to overheating and cause a fire hazard.
Similar covers are also available for indoor units at comparable prices to stop dust from accumulating on the fins and air filters.
