Air conditioners are designed to resist precipitation, such as rain and snow. However, if your outdoor air conditioner is drenched in standing water from a large downpour, this may critically damage the electrical components within. Your air conditioner is most likely to be damaged if the floodwater rises above a foot deep. Still, if the equipment has flooded at all, reach out to Roland J. Down Service Experts at 518-417-2938 for an air conditioning inspection.
If bad flooding has happened or is likely to happen, follow these directions to avoid damaging your air conditioning or generating dangerous operating conditions.
Before Flooding
Don’t cover your air conditioner with anything. A plastic sheet won’t keep out water. Instead, it will trap moisture inside, lead to rust, cause mold growth and give animals a spot to hide.
If you are in a flood-prone spot, research moving your air conditioner on an elevated floor. This elevates the system above possible floodwaters and can save you hassle and expense after the next downpour.
Another method to care for your air conditioning system is to create a retaining wall around it. This option can prevent air conditioner flooding, even as water flows around it. Similarly, you can place sandbags around the system when you realize a storm is on the way.
If hail is in the forecast, you can place sections of plywood across the top of the air conditioner to protect 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 AC while it’s surrounded by water. Doing so may create an electrical shock hazard or potentially destroy the internal system components.
To avoid these problems, turn off the power to the AC and thermostat. The fastest method for doing this is to go to the HVAC and thermostat breakers in your junction box and turn them to the “off” position. If you need help, call an air conditioning service company like Roland J. Down Service Experts .
After Flooding
Once the rain subsides, you want your system to dry out quickly. Remove standing water, if possible, and remove any debris from the immediate area.
Don’t run the AC until it has been reviewed by an HVAC technician. Even after it has dried out, operating flood-damaged equipment may present the same hazards as switching on the air conditioning while it’s still underwater. Some troubles require days or weeks to begin showing symptoms, so it’s smart to keep your air conditioner turned off until you get the go-ahead from an HVAC tech.
While you wait for your appointment, read through your homeowner’s insurance policy to see if flood damage covers your outdoor AC system. If so, take photos of the damage and submit your claim right away. If you don’t have flood insurance, you could still be covered if the air conditioner has suffered wind or hail damage.
Don’t Hesitate and Schedule Your AC Flooding Inspection with Roland J. Down Service Experts Today
For a thorough air conditioning inspection and safety check today.
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