Air conditioners are constructed to resist elements, such as rain and snow. However, if your outdoor air conditioner is submerged in standing water from a torrential downpour, this might severely damage the electrical components in it. Your cooling is most likely to be damaged if the floodwater rises above a foot deep. Still, if the unit has flooded at all, reach out to Calverley Service Experts at 817-380-5647 for an air conditioning inspection.
If severe flooding has taken place 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 a heavy cloth. A plastic sheet won’t protect it from water. Instead, it will trap moisture inside, promote rust, hasten mold growth and give pests a spot to hide.
If you are in a flood-prone area, consider installing your air conditioner on a raised platform. This elevates the machinery above possible floodwaters and can save you hassle and expense following the next downpour.
Another way to protect your air conditioning unit is to create a retaining wall around it. This option can stop air conditioner flooding, even as water flows around it. Similarly, you can stack sandbags around the equipment when you realize a storm is approaching.
If hail is predicted, you can lay boards of plywood across the top of the air conditioner to guard it from hail damage. Weigh the boards down securely with stones or bricks in case the wind picks up.
During Flooding
Don’t run your system while it’s submerged in water. Doing so can create an electrical shock hazard or even ruin the internal system components.
To avoid these problems, turn off the power to the air conditioner and thermostat. The fastest method for accomplishing this is to go to the HVAC and thermostat breakers in your junction box and turn them to the “off” position. If you want a second opinion, get in touch with an air conditioning service company like Calverley Service Experts.
After Flooding
Once the rain subsides, you want your AC to dry out as soon as possible. Draw away standing water, if possible, and pick up any debris from the surrounding area.
Don’t start the system until it has been checked by an HVAC technician. Even after it has dried out, using flood-damaged equipment can cause the same hazards as turning on the air conditioning while it’s still under the water. Some troubles need days or weeks to begin showing symptoms, so it’s ideal to keep your unit turned off until you have the go-ahead from an HVAC pro.
While you wait for your appointment, read through your homeowner’s insurance policy to see if flood damage secures your outdoor cooling system. If so, take photos of the damage and present your claim quickly. If you don’t have flood insurance, you might still be covered if the unit has suffered wind or hail damage.
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