Air conditioners are built to endure elements, such as rain and snow. However, if your outdoor air conditioner is immersed in standing water from a torrential downpour, this might critically damage the electrical components inside. Your air conditioner is most likely to suffer damage if the floodwater reaches a foot deep. Still, if the system has flooded at all, contact Levy & Son Service Experts at 469-250-0932 for an air conditioning inspection.
If bad flooding has happened or is likely to take place, follow these steps to avoid damaging your air conditioning or creating 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 bring moisture inside, lead to rust, cause mold growth and give animals a place to hide.
If you reside in a flood-prone spot, consider installing your air conditioner on a high base. This elevates the system above possible floodwaters and can save you trouble and expense after the next downpour.
Another approach to protect your air conditioning unit is to install a retaining wall around it. This technique can help you avoid air conditioner flooding, even as water surges around it. Similarly, you can place sandbags around the equipment when you are alerted a storm is on the way.
If hail is in the forecast, you can secure boards of plywood across the top of the air conditioner to guard it from hail damage. Weigh the plywood down firmly with stones or bricks in case the wind begins gusting.
During Flooding
Don’t use your system while it’s surrounded by water. Doing so can result in an electrical shock hazard or even ruin the internal system components.
To avoid this damage, disconnect the power to the air conditioning and thermostat. The easiest method for doing this is to find the HVAC and thermostat breakers in your junction box and switch them to the “off” position. If you require assistance, get in touch with an air conditioning service company like Levy & Son Service Experts.
After Flooding
Once the rain eases off, you want your system to dry out as soon as possible. Siphon off standing water, if possible, and clean any debris from the immediate area.
Don’t run the AC until it has been reviewed by an HVAC professional. Even after it has dried out, running flood-damaged equipment could cause the same hazards as using the air conditioning while it’s still under the water. Some issues require days or weeks to begin showing symptoms, so it’s best to keep your air conditioning turned off until you get the okay from an HVAC technician.
While you wait for your service visit, check your homeowner’s insurance policy to see if flood damage protects your outdoor AC system. If so, take stock of the damage and present your claim as soon as possible. If you don’t have flood insurance, you might still be covered if the unit has suffered wind or hail damage.
Don’t Wait and Request Your AC Flooding Review with Levy & Son Service Experts Today
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