As a homeowner in Sarasota or Manatee County, you know how heavy it can rain and how powerful a storm can be. That’s led many people to wonder if their outdoor AC unit is vulnerable to rain damage. We’re here to assure you that, in most cases, rain won’t harm your AC unit. However, there are exceptions and some things you should consider before a powerful storm strikes. Read on to learn more about rain’s effect on your HVAC system and what you can do to preserve your unit’s functionality.
Does Rain Affect Your Outdoor AC Unit?
Worried about raindrops finding their way into your AC unit and causing damage? The rain itself will not harm your outdoor AC unit because it is built to withstand heavy rain. The electrical components of your unit are insulated from wet conditions.
What About Window AC Units?
Similar to central AC, your window units are equally protected from rain. However, since this unit sits in a window, it may allow some water to seep into the inside of your home. Water left standing on some surfaces can cause damage. If you have a window AC unit, ensure it’s sealed properly to protect the interior of your home or office.
Rain Can Help Your Air Conditioner
Leaves, branches, and other debris can occasionally enter your outdoor AC unit, causing it to work less efficiently. But rain can help clear out the debris. But you don’t have to wait for the rain to help your unit. If your area hasn’t seen rain in a while, consider spraying your AC unit with a hose to dislodge any debris in the system.
Potential Weather-Related AC Problems
While raindrops won’t damage your outdoor AC unit, other weather-related problems, like storms and flooding, can. With bad storms come heavy gusts of wind that often carry debris capable of damaging your home and AC unit. Flooding that exceeds fifteen inches, but sometimes less can damage the internal parts of your AC unit.
Should You Cover Your Outdoor AC Unit During Winter?
Some homeowners choose to cover their outdoor AC units during the winter months. It’s not a bad idea, but you must do it properly to protect your unit from internal corrosion. If the wrapping you are using for your unit doesn’t allow for ventilation, it’ll trap moisture inside of it. This moisture sits for months, plaguing the internal parts of your AC unit. Never cover a heat pump though! If you aren’t sure which you have, it’s best to leave it uncovered.
Trust Elite Heating & Cooling for Your Outdoor AC Unit Needs
Did a recent storm leave you concerned about the status of your outdoor AC unit? It never hurts to get it checked out—in fact, it could help save you from larger repair or replacement costs. Who better to evaluate your AC unit than a professional HVAC technician, like ours?
Elite Heating & Cooling is your HVAC system solution. Our team has the training, tools, and experience needed to handle a whole range of AC unit repairs, replacements, tune-ups, and more. Never hesitate to call us, especially if you have an emergency. We offer same-day appointments and 24/7 emergency AC unit services. Call us at (941) 377-6962 or reach out online for a free estimate today.