Air conditioners are designed to resist elements, such as rain and snow. However, if your outdoor air conditioner is flooded with standing water from a torrential downpour, this could seriously damage the electrical components within. Your air conditioner is most likely to be damaged if the floodwater reaches a foot deep. Still, if the system has flooded at all, reach out to Air Engineers Service Experts at 904-450-5672 for an air conditioning inspection.
If bad flooding has taken place or is likely to occur, follow these steps to avoid hurting your air conditioner 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, hasten mold growth and give animals a place to hide.
If you are in a flood-prone location, consider moving your air conditioner on a high floor. This elevates the machinery above potential floodwaters and can save you hassle and expense after the next downpour.
Another method to care for your air conditioning equipment is to place a retaining wall around it. This option can help you avoid air conditioner flooding, even as water collects around it. Similarly, you can place sandbags around the system when you are alerted a storm is approaching.
If hail is in the forecast, you can place pieces of plywood across the top of the air conditioner to protect it from hail damage. Weigh the wood down securely with stones or bricks in case the wind begins gusting.
During Flooding
Don’t use your system while it’s flooded with water. Doing so may result in an electrical shock hazard or possibly ruin the internal system components.
To skip these problems, switch off the power to the air conditioning and thermostat. The easiest method for doing this is to go to the HVAC and thermostat breakers in your junction box and switch them to the “off” position. If you want help, call an air conditioning service company like Air Engineers Service Experts.
After Flooding
Once the rain eases off, you want your system to dry out as soon as possible. Draw away standing water, if possible, and pick up any debris from the immediate area.
Don’t start the system until it has been reviewed by an HVAC professional. Even after it has dried out, utilizing flood-damaged equipment may present the same hazards as turning on the air conditioning while it’s still underwater. Some problems need days or weeks to begin revealing symptoms, so it’s ideal to keep your air conditioner turned off until you have the go-ahead from an HVAC tech.
While you wait for your service visit, review your homeowner’s insurance policy to see if flood damage covers your outdoor cooling system. If so, take pictures of the damage and present your claim quickly. If you don’t have flood insurance, you might still be covered if the unit has sustained wind or hail damage.
Don’t Hesitate and Arrange Your AC Flooding Appointment with Air Engineers Service Experts Today
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