Air conditioners are built to withstand precipitation, such as rain and snow. However, if your outdoor air conditioner is submerged in standing water from a large downpour, this may severely 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 Neal Harris Service Experts at 816-787-0500 for an air conditioning inspection.
If severe flooding has occurred or is likely to take place, follow these instructions to avoid harming your air conditioning or making dangerous operating conditions.
Before Flooding
Don’t cover your air conditioner with a tarp. A plastic sheet won’t protect it from water. Instead, it will trap moisture inside, promote rust, cause mold growth and give critters a place to hide.
If you reside in a flood-prone area, research installing your air conditioner on a raised platform. This elevates the system above potential floodwaters and can save you trouble and expense following the next downpour.
Another way to protect your air conditioning unit is to install a retaining wall around it. This option can prevent air conditioner flooding, even as water collects around it. Similarly, you can place sandbags around the equipment when you realize a storm is on the way.
If hail is expected, you can secure 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 run your system while it’s surrounded by water. Doing so could result in an electrical shock hazard or even destroy the internal system components.
To avoid these issues, switch off the power to the air conditioner and thermostat. The easiest method for completing this is to find the HVAC and thermostat breakers in your junction box and flip them to the “off” position. If you want assistance, call an air conditioning service company like Neal Harris Service Experts.
After Flooding
Once the rain moves on, you want your AC to dry out swiftly. Remove standing water, if possible, and pick up any debris from the surrounding area.
Don’t turn on the AC until it has been checked by an HVAC professional. Even after it has dried out, operating flood-damaged equipment may pose the same hazards as using the air conditioning while it’s still under the water. Some issues need days or weeks to begin showing symptoms, so it’s smart to keep your unit turned off until you have the all-clear from an HVAC professional.
While you wait for your appointment, check your homeowner’s insurance policy to see if flood damage protects your outdoor AC system. If so, take pictures of the damage and present your claim right away. If you don’t have flood insurance, you might still be covered if the system has experienced wind or hail damage.
Don’t Wait and Request Your AC Flooding Review with Neal Harris Service Experts Today
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