Summer thunderstorms, strong winds, and flash floods tend to pound the Oklahoma City area during the spring and summer months. While assessing any fixes to your home from storm damage is essential, it’s also vital that you keep an eye on your air conditioning system to ensure it’s functioning correctly.
The outdoor unit of your air conditioning system is exposed to the elements, putting it at risk for damage during a storm. Air conditioning systems require regular maintenance and repairs during the normal months. While its outer casing is made of water-resistant materials and the grille can protect it from debris and wind damage, it’s still susceptible to storm damage. The outdoor unit contains the compressor, the condenser unit, the motor, the fan, and wires.
This article will provide details on how to tell if your HVAC unit is damaged in a storm and what to do if you find yourself in that situation.
1. Your air conditioning unit won’t turn on.
One of the most definitive signs of damage to your air conditioning unit is the power not turning on following a blackout. It may be your circuit breaker that needs to be reset. But if your air conditioner does not start after that, it’s likely sustained damage.
2. You have low output from your air conditioner.
If you notice that your air conditioner is not cooling, it might have sustained damage from a storm. The refrigerant lines could have sprung a leak. The condenser coils are exposed to weather and may have been damaged by strong winds or debris. Another probable cause is damage to the motor due to a burnt capacitor from a power surge.
3. You notice unusual noises or smells.
The outdoor portion of the air conditioning unit is protected by a sturdy casing. However, the fan and condenser coils within the air conditioning unit need to be exposed so warm air and humidity can be blown into the system. This makes the parts in the outdoor unit vulnerable to damage from high winds, which can blow debris, like stones or vegetation, into the casing. Stuck debris can cause damage, add strain to moving parts, and cause rattling noises when the air conditioner is on.
The best way to avoid problems with vegetation or other debris getting stuck in your AC unit is to clear the area around the outdoor unit and clean out the gutters above it.
What do you do if you notice visible damage?
If your AC unit has obvious signs that it suffered physical damage from heavy debris or flood water, call a professional immediately to assess the situation and conduct repairs if needed. If the unit has been displaced or fallen over, the internal components may be damaged, and your unit may need to be replaced. In addition, any disconnected or broken wires, pipes, fans, or motors that are showing will all need immediate attention from a professional.
Call Caldwell Mechanical Services for HVAC repair in Oklahoma City, OK!
Our top priority isn’t selling HVAC systems but building relationships with our clients. That’s why we’re trusted across Texas and Oklahoma for the maintenance, repair, and replacement of heating and cooling systems. We bring over 100 years of experience to our clients, developing customized solutions for any building or facility. After a thorough consultation, we’ll provide insight for developing a maintenance schedule, executing repairs, or upgrading your current equipment to improve reliability and performance.
When you’re ready to repair or take control of your climate control with an experienced HVAC partner, schedule a consultation with Caldwell Mechanical Services.
