Air conditioners are constructed to endure elements, including rain and snow. However, if your outdoor air conditioner is submerged in standing water from a long downpour, this may critically damage the electrical components in it. Your air conditioner is most likely to get damaged if the floodwater rises above a foot deep. Still, if the system has flooded at all, contact Gordon's Service Experts at 405-432-2197 for an air conditioning inspection.
If severe flooding has taken place or is likely to occur, follow these steps to avoid damaging your HVAC system or making dangerous operating conditions.
Before Flooding
Don’t cover your air conditioner with a heavy cloth. A plastic sheet won’t keep out water. Instead, it will trap moisture inside, promote rust, encourage mold growth and give pests a spot to hide.
If you reside in a flood-prone spot, research placing your air conditioner on a raised platform. This elevates the system above any floodwaters and can save you stress and expense following the next downpour.
Another approach to protect your air conditioning equipment is to place a retaining wall around it. This option can stop air conditioner flooding, even as water surges around it. Similarly, you can place sandbags around the unit when you are alerted a storm is on the way.
If hail is predicted, you can lay boards of plywood across the top of the air conditioner to shield it from hail damage. Weigh the boards down firmly with stones or bricks in case the wind begins gusting.
During Flooding
Don’t use your AC while it’s submerged in water. Doing so may lead to an electrical shock hazard or even ruin the internal system components.
To prevent these problems, disconnect the power to the air conditioner and thermostat. The easiest method for completing 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, contact an air conditioning service company like Gordon's Service Experts.
After Flooding
Once the rain subsides, you want your air conditioner to dry out quickly. Draw away 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 professional. Even after it has dried out, utilizing flood-damaged equipment can 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 revealing symptoms, so it’s best to keep your unit turned off until you receive the all-clear from an HVAC professional.
While you wait for your service visit, check 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 quickly. If you don’t have flood insurance, you might still be covered if the system has suffered wind or hail damage.
Don’t Delay and Schedule Your AC Flooding Appointment with Gordon's Service Experts Today
For a comprehensive air conditioning inspection and safety check right away.
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