Air conditioners are built to endure elements, including rain and snow. However, if your outdoor air conditioner is drenched in standing water from a long downpour, this could critically damage the electrical components within. Your cooling is most likely to get damaged if the floodwater exceeds a foot deep. Still, if the system has flooded at all, reach out to Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning at 321-428-7635 for an air conditioning inspection.
If severe flooding has taken place or is likely to happen, follow these directions to avoid harming your AC unit or making dangerous operating conditions.
Before Flooding
Don’t cover your air conditioner with a heavy cloth. A plastic sheet won’t keep out water. Instead, it will bring moisture inside, promote rust, hasten mold growth and give animals a spot to hide.
If you reside in a flood-prone spot, think about installing your air conditioner on an elevated platform. This elevates the machinery above potential floodwaters and can save you hassle and expense when you have to deal with the next downpour.
Another approach to care for your air conditioning unit is to create a retaining wall around it. This technique can help you avoid air conditioner flooding, even as water flows around it. Similarly, you can stack sandbags around the system when you are alerted a storm is on the way.
If hail is predicted, you can place pieces of plywood across the top of the air conditioner to shield it from hail damage. Weigh the plywood down firmly with stones or bricks in case the wind gets stronger.
During Flooding
Don’t turn on your system while it’s flooded with water. Doing so may result in an electrical shock hazard or even ruin the internal system components.
To skip these problems, disconnect the power to the air conditioning and thermostat. The quickest method for accomplishing this is to locate the HVAC and thermostat breakers in your junction box and turn them to the “off” position. If you want a second opinion, call an air conditioning service company like Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning.
After Flooding
Once the rain moves on, you want your air conditioner to dry out quickly. Siphon off standing water, if possible, and clean any debris from the surrounding area.
Don’t start the AC until it has been evaluated by an HVAC technician. Even after it has dried out, using flood-damaged equipment could pose the same hazards as switching on the air conditioning while it’s still underwater. Some troubles require days or weeks to begin having symptoms, so it’s smart to keep your air conditioner turned off until you have the okay from an HVAC technician.
While you wait for your service visit, check your homeowner’s insurance policy to see if flood damage covers your outdoor air conditioning system. If so, take pictures of the damage and present your claim quickly. If you don’t have flood insurance, you could still be covered if the system has sustained wind or hail damage.
Don’t Hesitate and Request Your AC Flooding Appointment with Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning Today
For a comprehensive air conditioning inspection and safety check now.
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