Find Out Whether Your AC Unit Sustained Damage After A Storm

Although ACs are built to hold up against environmental elements, they may not be impervious to adverse weather conditions. For example, strong winds and flooding can wreak havoc on your AC during intense summer storms, compromising the unit's efficiency and performance. In addition, despite some signs of storm damage being evident, others might be concealed and, if unaddressed, cause a system breakdown. Therefore, it is important that an AC professional assesses your unit for damage after a storm and repairs it for consistent and optimal performance. The following signs indicate AC damage.

Strange Noises

Even though the outdoor unit produces sounds when the fan is operating, loud and unusual noises indicate a defective component. In some cases, high-velocity winds can force debris into the unit and dislodge the fan from its position, causing it to scrape against the casing or bend the blades. Therefore, if you hear screeching or rattling noises from your unit, contact an air conditioner expert to pinpoint the cause of the noise, clean off dirt and debris, and fix the fan to promote your system's efficiency.

A Burning Electrical Smell

A pungent burning odor emanating from your unit indicates an electrical fault. During the storm, a power surge can overload and short out the circuit, burning the capacitors, wires, and fuses. Therefore, if you notice an acrid burning smell, engage an AC specialist to replace the frayed electrical components and install a whole-house surge protector to guard against surges in electricity.

Reduced Cooling Capacity

If you notice that after a storm, your system is struggling to keep you cool during the summer heat, it may have incurred damage. For instance, clogged coils, refrigerant leaks, and a broken motor impede effective heat absorption and expulsion, significantly reducing the system's efficiency. In addition, the airflow is weakened, causing uneven cooling in your home. To prevent your electricity bills from skyrocketing, hire an AC expert to seal the leaks, fix the motor, and clean the condenser coils.

Water Pooling Around Your Unit

Your AC utilizes the drain pan to collect condensate as it drips from the evaporator coils before emptying it into your plumbing system through the piping. However, if the drain line is damaged during a storm, it might disconnect from the drain pan, causing water to spill. Moreover, your outdoor unit might submerge in water due to a flash flood. This will likely damage the electrical components and pose the risk of electrocution, especially with the storm's water.

A storm's high winds and heavy rainfall can be catastrophic to your AC system. Therefore, hire an expert technician to inspect your unit after inclement weather and make the necessary repairs and replacements, restoring your home's interior comfort.

For more information on air conditioning repair, contact a professional near you.