Running your AC during monsoon season? 5 hidden risks you must know about

Running your AC during the monsoon might seem harmless, but it can quietly create problems you didn’t expect. Here’s what to watch out for.

As the monsoon season sweeps across India, millions of people rely on air conditioning to keep cool indoors. While the monsoon season does alter how we use our air conditioners, people sometimes overlook the risks of running AC units during heavy rain. In India, where humidity spikes during the rainy season, failing to adjust an air conditioner for these conditions can lead to unexpected problems. From higher energy costs, equipment damage, to health concerns, the monsoon demands more attention to your AC care than the scorching summer months.

The monsoon season brings high humidity, which puts a strain on air conditioners and can lead to health, cost and maintenance issues. (AI generated)

By MD Ijaj Khan

Ijaj Khan is a technology journalist and Senior Content Producer at Hindustan Times, with over three years of experience covering the consumer technology industry. His work spans smartphones, laptops, wearables, gaming, appliances and AI - from hands-on reviews, comparison and buying guides to breaking news and in-depth features that help readers cut through the noise and make informed decisions. Before joining HT Tech, he worked with Jagran New Media, where he sharpened his instincts for fast-paced digital reporting. He holds a Post Graduate Diploma in English Journalism and Mass Communication from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), Delhi. Whether he's testing the latest flagship smartphone, tracking a major AI announcement, or putting a gaming laptop through its paces, Ijaj approaches every story with the same goal - making technology feel relevant and easy to understand for everyday users, not just enthusiasts. When he's not in front of a screen for work, he's usually travelling to a new city, hunting for great food, or keeping tabs on what's next in tech before everyone else catches on.

Read moreRead less

Here are five hidden dangers of running your AC during the rainy season:

1. Increased Humidity Makes Your AC Work Harder

Unlike summer, the main challenge during monsoon is not heat but moisture in the air. Air conditioners must work harder to remove this excess humidity. Running your unit in regular “Cool Mode” may not be effective enough. Switching to “Dry Mode” helps reduce moisture without excessive cooling, saving energy and lowering your electricity bill.

2. Risk of Mould Growth Inside the AC

Moisture from the humid air tends to accumulate inside the AC’s filters and ducts. If these parts are not cleaned regularly, mould and mildew can develop, causing musty odours and potentially triggering respiratory problems like coughing and sneezing. Cleaning the filters every couple of weeks is a simple maintenance step that improves air quality and keeps your system running smoothly.

3. Power Fluctuations Can Damage Your AC

Monsoon rains often cause power outages and voltage drops, especially in cities like Mumbai and Delhi. If it is not protected by a voltage stabiliser or surge protector, sudden electrical fluctuations can harm your AC’s internal components. Using these devices is essential for preventing premature wear and costly repairs.

4. Outdoor Unit Exposure to Rain Can Affect Performance

The outdoor component of your split AC system is vulnerable to rainwater, standing water, and clogged drains during monsoon. These conditions can lead to rust or mechanical issues, reducing the efficiency of your unit. Positioning the outdoor unit in a sheltered area with proper drainage or inspecting it after heavy rains helps avoid damage.

5. Overcooling May Lead to Health Issues

The monsoon climate is naturally cool and humid. Setting your air conditioning to a very low temperature, such as 18 degrees Celsius, can cause discomfort and health problems, including sore throats and body aches. Maintaining a moderate temperature of between 24 and 26 degrees Celsius, combined with a fan to circulate the air, is more comfortable and avoids such risks.

In short, by keeping these points in mind, you can use your air conditioner more effectively during the rainy season, protecting both your health and your appliance.

Mobile finder: iPhone 16 LATEST price, specs and all details