Air conditioners are constructed to endure precipitation, such as rain and snow. However, if your outdoor air conditioner is drenched in standing water from a large downpour, this may critically damage the electrical components within. Your AC unit is most likely to get damaged if the floodwater exceeds a foot deep. Still, if the system has flooded at all, call Sunbeam Service Experts at 716-427-6807 for an air conditioning inspection.
If severe flooding has happened or is likely to happen, follow these steps to avoid damaging your air conditioner or making 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 bring moisture inside, promote rust, hasten mold growth and give pests a spot to hide.
If you live in a flood-prone location, consider moving your air conditioner on a high base. This elevates the equipment above possible floodwaters and can save you hassle and expense when you have to deal with the next downpour.
Another method to care for your air conditioning unit is to place a retaining wall around it. This option can prevent air conditioner flooding, even as water flows around it. Similarly, you can pile sandbags around the equipment when you know a storm is on the way.
If hail is predicted, you can secure boards 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 gets stronger.
During Flooding
Don’t use your air conditioner while it’s surrounded by water. Doing so can lead to an electrical shock hazard or possibly ruin the internal system components.
To skip these issues, turn off the power to the AC and thermostat. The quickest method for doing this is to locate the HVAC and thermostat breakers in your junction box and flip them to the “off” position. If you need assistance, call an air conditioning service company like Sunbeam Service Experts.
After Flooding
Once the rain eases off, you want your air conditioner to dry out quickly. Siphon off standing water, if possible, and pick up any debris from the nearby area.
Don’t start the system until it has been evaluated by an HVAC technician. Even after it has dried out, utilizing flood-damaged equipment might present the same hazards as switching on the air conditioning while it’s still submerged in water. Some troubles require days or weeks to begin having symptoms, so it’s best to keep your air conditioning turned off until you receive the all-clear from an HVAC pro.
While you wait for your technician to arrive, check your homeowner’s insurance policy to see if flood damage protects your outdoor air conditioning system. If so, take photos of the damage and present your claim as soon as possible. If you don’t have flood insurance, you could still be covered if the system has suffered wind or hail damage.
Request an Air Conditioning Flooding Inspection with Sunbeam Service Experts
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