AC owners often overlook a few simple preventive steps during the monsoon, only to face potentially higher repair and maintenance costs later. The outdoor unit remains exposed to rain, humidity, moisture and dust through the season, conditions that can contribute to corrosion and other problems if the unit is not properly maintained. A basic rain cover, which can cost around Rs 250 for many residential split AC units, can be an inexpensive way to reduce direct exposure to rainfall when the AC is not in use.
Compared with the potential cost of repairing a rusted outdoor-unit casing or dealing with a refrigerant leak, the small upfront expense can make sense as a preventive measure. However, a cover is only one part of monsoon maintenance and should never block the outdoor unit's airflow while the AC is operating.