Air conditioners are designed to resist precipitation, like rain and snow. However, if your outdoor air conditioner is submerged in standing water from a large downpour, this may critically damage the electrical components inside. Your air conditioner is most likely to suffer damage if the floodwater exceeds a foot deep. Still, if the system has flooded at all, reach out to A1 Chesney Service Experts at 587-315-5271 for an air conditioning inspection.
If severe flooding has taken place or is likely to happen, follow these directions to avoid damaging your HVAC system or generating dangerous operating conditions.
Before Flooding
Don’t cover your air conditioner with anything. A plastic sheet won’t repel water. Instead, it will draw moisture inside, promote rust, cause mold growth and give animals an area to hide.
If you reside in a flood-prone area, think about moving your air conditioner on a high floor. This elevates the equipment above any floodwaters and can save you stress and expense when you have to deal with the next downpour.
Another way to care for your air conditioning equipment is to install a retaining wall around it. This technique can prevent air conditioner flooding, even as water rises around it. Similarly, you can place sandbags around the equipment when you know a storm is approaching.
If hail is predicted, you can place sections of plywood across the top of the air conditioner to guard it from hail damage. Weigh the wood down safely with stones or bricks in case the wind picks up.
During Flooding
Don’t use your air conditioner while it’s surrounded by water. Doing so may lead to an electrical shock hazard or possibly destroy the internal system components.
To avoid this damage, switch off the power to the air conditioning and thermostat. The fastest method for completing this is to locate the HVAC and thermostat breakers in your junction box and flip them to the “off” position. If you require help, contact an air conditioning service company like A1 Chesney Service Experts.
After Flooding
Once the rain subsides, you want your air conditioner to dry out quickly. Siphon off standing water, if possible, and clean any debris from the immediate area.
Don’t start the system until it has been checked by an HVAC expert. Even after it has dried out, utilizing flood-damaged equipment can pose the same hazards as switching on the air conditioning while it’s still under the water. Some troubles require days or weeks to begin having symptoms, so it’s best to keep your unit turned off until you have the okay from an HVAC tech.
While you wait for your service visit, read through your homeowner’s insurance policy to see if flood damage covers your outdoor air conditioning system. If so, take photos of the damage and submit your claim as soon as possible. If you don’t have flood insurance, you may still be covered if the system has experienced wind or hail damage.
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