Air conditioners are constructed to endure weather, including rain and snow. However, if your outdoor air conditioner is immersed in standing water from a torrential downpour, this might critically damage the electrical components in it. Your air conditioner is most likely to be damaged if the floodwater reaches a foot deep. Still, if the equipment has flooded at all, reach out to BW/Cook Service Experts at 574-218-6404 for an air conditioning inspection.
If extreme flooding has occurred or is likely to take place, follow these instructions to avoid hurting your air conditioner or generating dangerous operating conditions.
Before Flooding
Don’t cover your air conditioner with a tarp. A plastic sheet won’t protect it from water. Instead, it will trap moisture inside, encourage rust, hasten mold growth and give critters a spot to hide.
If you reside in a flood-prone location, research installing your air conditioner on a raised platform. This elevates the system above possible floodwaters and can save you trouble and expense when you have to deal with the next downpour.
Another method to safeguard your air conditioning unit is to create a retaining wall around it. This structure can stop air conditioner flooding, even as water flows around it. Similarly, you can place sandbags around the equipment when you are alerted a storm is on the way.
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 wood down securely with stones or bricks in case the wind begins gusting.
During Flooding
Don’t turn on your air conditioner while it’s flooded with water. Doing so can lead to an electrical shock hazard or even destroy the internal system components.
To avoid this damage, switch off the power to the AC and thermostat. The easiest method for accomplishing this is to go to the HVAC and thermostat breakers in your junction box and turn them to the “off” position. If you want assistance, call an air conditioning service company like BW/Cook Service Experts.
After Flooding
Once the rain eases off, you want your air conditioner to dry out as soon as possible. Remove standing water, if possible, and clean any debris from the immediate area.
Don’t start the air conditioner until it has been evaluated by an HVAC expert. Even after it has dried out, utilizing flood-damaged equipment may pose the same hazards as turning on the air conditioning while it’s still submerged in water. Some problems need days or weeks to begin showing symptoms, so it’s wise to keep your air conditioning turned off until you get the all-clear from an HVAC tech.
While you wait for your service visit, go over your homeowner’s insurance policy to see if flood damage protects your outdoor AC system. If so, take pictures of the damage and submit your claim as soon as possible. If you don’t have flood insurance, you may still be covered if the unit has sustained wind or hail damage.
Don’t Wait and Schedule Your AC Flooding Appointment with BW/Cook Service Experts Today
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