Air conditioners are designed to withstand weather, including rain and snow. However, if your outdoor air conditioner is immersed in standing water from a large downpour, this could seriously damage the electrical components within. Your cooling is most likely to suffer damage if the floodwater rises above a foot deep. Still, if the system has flooded at all, reach out to McKinley Heating Service Experts at 780-800-7092 for an air conditioning inspection.
If severe flooding has taken place or is likely to occur, follow these directions to avoid damaging your air conditioning or creating 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, hasten mold growth and give pests a spot to hide.
If you live in a flood-prone spot, think about moving your air conditioner on an elevated platform. This elevates the machinery above any floodwaters and can save you trouble and expense after the next downpour.
Another way to protect your air conditioning equipment is to place a retaining wall around it. This structure can help you avoid air conditioner flooding, even as water flows around it. Similarly, you can place sandbags around the system when you are alerted a storm is on the way.
If hail is expected, you can place pieces of plywood across the top of the air conditioner to protect 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 system while it’s submerged in water. Doing so can lead to an electrical shock hazard or even ruin the internal system components.
To prevent these problems, turn 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 help, get in touch with an air conditioning service company like McKinley Heating Service Experts.
After Flooding
Once the rain subsides, you want your AC to dry out swiftly. Siphon off standing water, if possible, and clean any debris from the nearby area.
Don’t turn on the AC until it has been reviewed by an HVAC expert. Even after it has dried out, utilizing flood-damaged equipment can cause the same hazards as using the air conditioning while it’s still submerged in water. Some problems need days or weeks to begin having symptoms, so it’s smart to keep your air conditioner turned off until you have the all-clear from an HVAC professional.
While you wait for your technician to arrive, review your homeowner’s insurance policy to see if flood damage secures your outdoor cooling system. If so, take photos of the damage and present your claim quickly. If you don’t have flood insurance, you might still be covered if the system has sustained wind or hail damage.
Don’t Delay and Request Your AC Flooding Review with McKinley Heating Service Experts Today
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