Flooding or Hail Can Cause Severe Damage to Your Air Conditioning System

Air conditioners are constructed to withstand weather, such as rain and snow. However, if your outdoor air conditioner is flooded with standing water from a large downpour, this may critically damage the electrical components in it. Your air conditioner is most likely to suffer damage if the floodwater reaches a foot deep. Still, if the unit has flooded at all, call San Antonio Air Service Experts at 210-570-9705 for an air conditioning inspection.

If severe flooding has taken place or is likely to happen, follow these steps to avoid harming your AC unit or creating 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, encourage mold growth and give critters a spot to hide.

If you live in a flood-prone location, think about installing your air conditioner on a high stand. This elevates the machinery above possible floodwaters and can save you hassle and expense when you have to deal with the next downpour.

Another approach to protect your air conditioning system is to create a retaining wall around it. This technique can stop air conditioner flooding, even as water flows around it. Similarly, you can pile sandbags around the system when you know a storm is coming.

If hail is expected, you can lay sections of plywood across the top of the air conditioner to shield it from hail damage. Weigh the plywood down securely with stones or bricks in case the wind picks up.

During Flooding

Don’t use your air conditioner while it’s surrounded by water. Doing so could result in an electrical shock hazard or even destroy the internal system components.

To skip these problems, turn off the power to the air conditioning and thermostat. The easiest method for completing this is to go to the HVAC and thermostat breakers in your junction box and switch them to the “off” position. If you want assistance, contact an air conditioning service company like San Antonio Air Service Experts.

After Flooding

Once the rain subsides, you want your air conditioner to dry out swiftly. Remove standing water, if possible, and clean any debris from the surrounding area.

Don’t run the AC until it has been evaluated by an HVAC expert. Even after it has dried out, running flood-damaged equipment can present the same hazards as turning on the air conditioning while it’s still underwater. Some troubles need days or weeks to begin showing symptoms, so it’s wise to keep your air conditioner turned off until you get the okay from an HVAC tech.

While you wait for your appointment, go over your homeowner’s insurance policy to see if flood damage secures your outdoor air conditioning system. If so, take stock of the damage and present your claim quickly. If you don’t have flood insurance, you might still be covered if the system has suffered wind or hail damage.

Arrange an AC Flooding Review with San Antonio Air Service Experts

For a comprehensive air conditioning inspection and safety check right away.