Air conditioners are constructed to resist precipitation, such as rain and snow. However, if your outdoor air conditioner is drenched in standing water from a large downpour, this can critically damage the electrical components inside. Your air conditioner is most likely to be damaged if the floodwater exceeds a foot deep. Still, if the system has flooded at all, contact Stevenson Service Experts at 937-503-7896 for an air conditioning inspection.
If bad flooding has happened or is likely to take place, follow these directions to avoid harming your air conditioner 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, lead to rust, encourage mold growth and give critters a spot to hide.
If you are in a flood-prone location, research moving your air conditioner on a raised base. This elevates the unit above possible floodwaters and can save you trouble and expense following the next downpour.
Another approach to care for your air conditioning unit is to install a retaining wall around it. This technique can help you avoid 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 expected, you can place sections of plywood across the top of the air conditioner to guard it from hail damage. Weigh the plywood down safely with stones or bricks in case the wind begins gusting.
During Flooding
Don’t use your AC while it’s flooded with water. Doing so can create an electrical shock hazard or possibly destroy the internal system components.
To skip these issues, switch off the power to the air conditioning and thermostat. The easiest method for completing this is to locate the HVAC and thermostat breakers in your junction box and turn them to the “off” position. If you require help, get in touch with an air conditioning service company like Stevenson Service Experts.
After Flooding
Once the rain subsides, you want your AC to dry out as soon as possible. Siphon off standing water, if possible, and clean any debris from the surrounding area.
Don’t turn on the air conditioner until it has been checked by an HVAC technician. Even after it has dried out, utilizing flood-damaged equipment may cause the same hazards as switching on the air conditioning while it’s still submerged in water. Some troubles take days or weeks to begin showing symptoms, so it’s best to keep your air conditioner turned off until you get the go-ahead from an HVAC tech.
While you wait for your service visit, check your homeowner’s insurance policy to see if flood damage covers your outdoor air conditioning system. If so, take stock of the damage and process your claim as soon as possible. If you don’t have flood insurance, you might still be covered if the air conditioner has sustained wind or hail damage.
Don’t Delay and Schedule Your AC Flooding Evaluation with Stevenson Service Experts Today
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