A split AC is one of the most expensive appliances in a Pakistani home, and it spends four to five months of the year switched off. During that time dust, rain, pigeons and harsh sun can all shorten its life. A good AC cover is one of the cheapest ways to protect it.
Why cover your AC?
- Dust: spring dust storms and construction dust settle inside the indoor unit's filters and fins, reducing cooling and making the first start of summer smelly.
- Rain and moisture: monsoon and winter rain can rust exposed parts and panels of the outdoor unit.
- Sun damage: strong UV turns plastic panels yellow and brittle over time.
- Birds and insects: pigeons nest on and around outdoor units, and insects crawl into idle indoor units.
- A cleaner-looking room: a fabric cover on the indoor unit looks neater than a dusty plastic panel all winter.
Indoor unit cover vs outdoor unit cover
| Indoor cover | Outdoor cover | |
|---|---|---|
| Main job | Keep dust out, look neat | Keep rain, sun and dirt off |
| Best fabric | Soft quilted fabric | Waterproof parachute or coated fabric |
| When to use | Whenever the AC is off for weeks | During the off-season (winter) |
The Khaash quilted AC cover set includes both: a padded quilted cover for the indoor unit and a waterproof parachute cover for the outdoor unit, with elastic edges for a snug fit.
When should you cover your AC?
In most of Pakistan, cover your AC when you stop using it for the season, usually from late October or November until March. In the north the off-season is longer; in Karachi many people use AC almost all year, so an indoor cover during short breaks is often enough.
Important: never run the AC with the outdoor cover on. The outdoor unit needs free airflow to release heat. Always remove the outdoor cover before switching the AC back on.
Which size do you need?
AC covers are sized by the AC's capacity:
- 1 ton: smaller indoor units, usually for small rooms.
- 1.5 ton: the most common size in Pakistani homes.
- 2 ton: wider indoor units for large rooms and lounges.
Check the sticker on the side of your indoor unit, or your AC's manual, for the ton rating. Covers for inverter and non-inverter ACs of the same capacity are usually the same size.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Covering a wet unit. Always cover the outdoor unit on a dry day, so moisture is not trapped inside.
- Using plastic sheets. Plain plastic traps condensation and can cause rust. Use a proper breathable or waterproof fabric cover.
- Skipping the service. Clean the filters before covering the unit for winter, so it starts fresh next summer.
- Leaving the cover on in summer. Remove the outdoor cover before the first use every season.
Frequently asked questions
Can I run my AC with the indoor cover on?
No. Remove the indoor cover before switching on the AC, because it blocks the air intake and outlet.
Is it safe to cover the outdoor unit?
Yes, while the AC is off. A waterproof cover protects it from rain, dust and sun during the off-season. Remove it before using the AC again.
Will one cover fit both inverter and non-inverter ACs?
Usually yes. Size depends on the ton rating and unit dimensions, not whether the AC is an inverter.
How do I clean an AC cover?
Quilted indoor covers can be hand washed or machine washed on a gentle cycle. Wipe outdoor parachute covers with a damp cloth and let them dry fully before storing.
