HVAC systems are built to withstand most weather conditions, but they’re not indestructible; they can still get damaged by storms. In today’s post, local air conditioning service contractor Modern Air Solutions Inc discusses the signs that indicate your HVAC unit has been damaged by a storm and what you can do about it.
Signs of Storm Damage
One of the first things you should do is inspect your home for storm damage. This includes your roof, exterior walls and utilities. The following signs may indicate a storm-damaged HVAC system:
- It’s not turning back on — Power surges are common during a storm, usually after a blackout. If one occurs, this means the circuit breaker has been tripped, and all you need to do is reset it. However, if the air conditioner still won’t start, this may indicate storm damage.
- It’s not blowing cool air — Damaged refrigerant lines may result in leaks that ultimately lead to low output from your air conditioning system. This isn’t immediately noticeable, but if you find yourself needing to adjust your thermostat frequently, then your HVAC system might be running out of refrigerant. You may also notice a chemical smell similar to chloroform emanating from the condenser unit.
- Noises are coming from the outdoor enclosure — High-speed winds during a storm can push small pieces of debris into your HVAC system’s outdoor unit and cause rattling or buzzing noises.
What Should You Do If Your HVAC System is Storm-Damaged?
If you find signs of storm damage as described above or see standing water near the outdoor unit, don’t continue using the HVAC system. Instead, turn it off at the circuit breaker, call your HVAC technician for repairs and increase ventilation by opening some of the windows. Review your homeowners insurance policy and HVAC warranty and see if either or both provide coverage for storm damage.
Modern Air Solutions Inc is your leading provider of air conditioner repair and installation services. Give us a call at 630-884-4181 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.
