Air conditioners are built to withstand elements, such as rain and snow. However, if your outdoor air conditioner is flooded with standing water from a long downpour, this may seriously damage the electrical components in it. Your air conditioner is most likely to get damaged if the floodwater exceeds a foot deep. Still, if the equipment has flooded at all, reach out to Peitz Service Experts at 605-223-0307 for an air conditioning inspection.
If severe flooding has taken place or is likely to take place, follow these steps to avoid hurting your air conditioning or making dangerous operating conditions.
Before Flooding
Don’t cover your air conditioner with a heavy cloth. A plastic sheet won’t repel water. Instead, it will draw moisture inside, promote rust, hasten mold growth and give animals a place to hide.
If you are in a flood-prone spot, consider placing your air conditioner on a high floor. This elevates the system above potential floodwaters and can save you hassle and expense after the next downpour.
Another method to safeguard your air conditioning equipment is to create a retaining wall around it. This structure can prevent air conditioner flooding, even as water surges around it. Similarly, you can pile sandbags around the equipment when you are alerted a storm is approaching.
If hail is expected, you can secure pieces of plywood across the top of the air conditioner to guard it from hail damage. Weigh the boards down firmly 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 can create an electrical shock hazard or possibly ruin the internal system components.
To skip this damage, disconnect the power to the air conditioning and thermostat. The fastest method for completing this is to go to the HVAC and thermostat breakers in your junction box and flip them to the “off” position. If you need help, get in touch with an air conditioning service company like Peitz Service Experts.
After Flooding
Once the rain eases off, you want your system to dry out as soon as possible. Draw away standing water, if possible, and remove any debris from the surrounding area.
Don’t start the AC until it has been checked by an HVAC expert. Even after it has dried out, operating flood-damaged equipment can pose the same hazards as switching on the air conditioning while it’s still submerged in water. Some issues need days or weeks to begin revealing symptoms, so it’s smart to keep your air conditioner turned off until you receive the all-clear from an HVAC pro.
While you wait for your service visit, review your homeowner’s insurance policy to see if flood damage protects your outdoor AC system. If so, take photos of the damage and present your claim as soon as possible. If you don’t have flood insurance, you might still be covered if the system has experienced wind or hail damage.
Don’t Delay and Schedule Your AC Flooding Review with Peitz Service Experts Today
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