How Severe Weather Can Affect Your Air Conditioner

When summer reaches its peak, your air conditioner may work double-time to keep your the U.S. home cool and comfortable. While a lot of summer days are warm and beautiful, most areas of the country are no stranger to dangerous weather. Stormy conditions, and even days with high heat and humidity, can impact your air conditioner’s performance, efficiency and longevity. Learn about the many ways weather can affect your air conditioner and how to protect it.

Impact of Weather on Your Air Conditioner

Performance

Several different weather conditions can alter how well your air conditioning unit performs. On very hot days, the AC has to work harder to maintain the set temperature. The increased workload might lead to an overloaded system, causing a breakdown.

Extreme humidity also creates a problem. Although air conditioners are designed to dehumidify the air as they cool it, excessive humidity can put extra pressure on the system. This can result in reduced performance and a less comfortable home.

Efficiency

Periods of very hot weather force your air conditioner to run constantly, causing a spike in energy bills. If the system is not designed or set up properly, it may not be able to meet the cooling demand under these conditions.

Conversely, the condensing unit is in jeopardy if it functions in subfreezing conditions. Attempting to operate the air conditioner when the outdoor unit is covered in ice can damage the compressor, decreasing efficiency and possibly wrecking your cooling system.

Weather-Induced Damage

Heavy rain, wind, hail or snow can inflict damage on a home’s outdoor AC unit. Debris from storms can obstruct airflow, reduce system efficiency or dent the metal. Should water flood the system, corrosion or short-circuiting might occur, shortening the lifetime of your unit.

Protecting Your Air Conditioner from Severe Weather

The outdoor AC unit is vulnerable to severe weather, but you can take steps to secure it. Here’s how to shield your air conditioner from damaging incoming weather:

• Install your air conditioner in the shade: A shaded outdoor unit doesn’t have to work as hard, enhancing efficiency and prolonging the unit’s life span. If possible, place the AC on the north or east side of your home or in another spot that is shaded during the hot afternoon.
• Invest in an air conditioner cover: AC covers provide a protective shield. During the off-season or when severe weather is predicted, consider covering your air conditioner to protect it from flying debris, falling ice and deep snowfall. Don’t forget, though, to make sure you don’t attempt to turn on the air conditioner while the outdoor unit is covered.
• Maintain your HVAC system regularly: Performing regular maintenance is a simple and easy measure to enhance your AC unit’s resilience. After all, a regularly serviced air conditioner is less likely to buckle under the stress of elevated temperatures or humidity. Regular cleaning, filter replacement and comprehensive inspections ensure your system stays in top-notch condition and is ready to face any weather.
• Install a surge protector: Power surges are a common consequence of storms that can damage your AC unit’s electrical elements. Installing a surge protector adds an additional level of defense. On the other hand, you can easily turn off your air conditioning during severe weather by flipping the circuit breaker.
• Secure and elevate your outdoor unit: Heavy winds can cause the outdoor air conditioning unit to fall over or move. Similarly, rising water can cover the internal elements. Ensure your outdoor unit is correctly secured and lifted up on bricks or platforms designed to protect it from wind and water damage.
• Clear your yard of debris: Always keep the space around your air conditioner clear of loose things that could become dangerous projectiles. This helps prevent denting and other physical damage during severe weather.

Checking on Your AC After a Storm

In the aftermath of extreme weather, follow these steps to ensure your air conditioner is able to continue to operate safety:

• Conduct a visual inspection: When the sky clears, go out and examine your unit. Check for issues such as dents, exposed wires or an off-kilter base.
• Clear debris: Remove any leaves, twigs and other debris to maximize airflow and efficiency.
• Inspect for water damage: If your area has experienced flooding, examine your HVAC equipment for water damage. If you suspect water got into the unit, it’s always better not to turn it on until you have it professionally serviced.
• Schedule a timely repair: In the case of storm damage, don’t delay air conditioning repair, or you risk higher energy expenses, a reduced life span or total system disaster.

Contact Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning

No one wants to deal with severe weather, but it’s essential to be prepared and know how to recover. At Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning, we offer post-storm inspections and repairs to ensure your air conditioning system operates safely and efficiently. Our team can handle all your AC service needs in the U.S., including maintenance, repair and replacement. Don’t let severe weather impact your indoor comfort—contact a Service Experts office near you for more information or to schedule a visit today.