Air conditioners are designed to endure elements, such as rain and snow. However, if your outdoor air conditioner is flooded with standing water from a torrential downpour, this might seriously damage the electrical components in it. Your air conditioner is most likely to suffer damage if the floodwater reaches a foot deep. Still, if the unit has flooded at all, call Aramendia Plumbing, Heating and Air at 210-404-4233 for an air conditioning inspection.
If severe flooding has taken place or is likely to occur, follow these instructions to avoid damaging your AC unit or making dangerous operating conditions.
Before Flooding
Don’t cover your air conditioner with anything. A plastic sheet won’t keep out water. Instead, it will draw moisture inside, promote rust, encourage mold growth and give animals a place to hide.
If you live in a flood-prone spot, consider moving your air conditioner on an elevated stand. This elevates the unit above potential floodwaters and can save you stress and expense when you have to deal with the next downpour.
Another approach to safeguard your air conditioning unit is to install a retaining wall around it. This structure can stop air conditioner flooding, even as water rises around it. Similarly, you can pile sandbags around the unit when you realize a storm is approaching.
If hail is expected, you can secure boards 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 gets stronger.
During Flooding
Don’t use your air conditioner while it’s surrounded by water. Doing so may result in an electrical shock hazard or potentially damage the internal system components.
To skip these issues, switch off the power to the air conditioner and thermostat. The quickest method for completing this is to locate the HVAC and thermostat breakers in your junction box and switch them to the “off” position. If you require help, contact an air conditioning service company like Aramendia Plumbing, Heating and Air.
After Flooding
Once the rain eases off, you want your system to dry out swiftly. Draw away standing water, if possible, and pick up any debris from the immediate area.
Don’t run the air conditioner until it has been reviewed by an HVAC technician. Even after it has dried out, running flood-damaged equipment can present the same hazards as turning on the air conditioning while it’s still submerged in water. Some troubles need days or weeks to begin having symptoms, so it’s best to keep your air conditioner turned off until you have the go-ahead from an HVAC pro.
While you wait for your appointment, go over your homeowner’s insurance policy to see if flood damage covers your outdoor AC system. If so, take stock of the damage and process your claim quickly. If you don’t have flood insurance, you might still be covered if the air conditioner has experienced wind or hail damage.
Arrange an Air Conditioning Flooding Review with Aramendia Plumbing, Heating and Air
For a thorough air conditioning inspection and safety check today.
*Not applicable to the Advantage Program. See your signed Advantage Program agreement for full details and exclusions. 100% Satisfaction Guarantee is subject to certain restrictions and limitations as set forth in the applicable Terms and Conditions.