Air conditioners are constructed to withstand elements, like rain and snow. However, if your outdoor air conditioner is immersed in standing water from a torrential downpour, this may severely damage the electrical components inside. Your cooling is most likely to be damaged if the floodwater rises above a foot deep. Still, if the equipment has flooded at all, reach out to Golden Seal Service Experts at 630-246-2698 for an air conditioning inspection.
If severe flooding has taken place or is likely to occur, follow these instructions 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 keep out water. Instead, it will bring moisture inside, promote rust, encourage mold growth and give animals a place to hide.
If you reside in a flood-prone area, consider installing your air conditioner on an elevated floor. This elevates the system above any floodwaters and can save you trouble and expense after the next downpour.
Another approach to care for your air conditioning equipment is to install a retaining wall around it. This structure can prevent air conditioner flooding, even as water flows around it. Similarly, you can pile sandbags around the unit when you realize a storm is approaching.
If hail is expected, you can place sections of plywood across the top of the air conditioner to protect it from hail damage. Weigh the plywood down securely with stones or bricks in case the wind begins gusting.
During Flooding
Don’t use your AC while it’s surrounded by water. Doing so may create an electrical shock hazard or potentially damage the internal system components.
To prevent these issues, disconnect the power to the air conditioning and thermostat. The easiest method for accomplishing 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 Golden Seal Service Experts.
After Flooding
Once the rain subsides, you want your air conditioner to dry out as soon as possible. Siphon off standing water, if possible, and remove any debris from the immediate area.
Don’t start the system until it has been reviewed by an HVAC technician. Even after it has dried out, operating flood-damaged equipment might cause the same hazards as using the air conditioning while it’s still under the water. Some issues require days or weeks to begin having 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 technician to arrive, check your homeowner’s insurance policy to see if flood damage covers your outdoor AC system. If so, take stock of the damage and submit your claim quickly. If you don’t have flood insurance, you might still be covered if the system has sustained wind or hail damage.
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