Is My AC Safe During a Storm?
Living in Florida’s subtropical climate, heat isn’t the only extreme weather characteristic we have to deal with. We also get a lot of rain — about 54 inches of it each year. That’s 14 inches more than the national average!
With all the rain we experience, not to mention severe weather phenomenon like tropical storms and hurricanes, you may find yourself wondering if the outdoor portion of your air conditioner is safe without protection. Here’s what you need to know:
Rain Will Not Harm Your AC
Your air conditioner is built to withstand most forms of inclement weather. In most cases, your AC unit is perfectly safe in the rain and will continue functioning normally.
Although it’s common belief that covering your condenser unit with a tarp is necessary to protect it from heavy rains, doing so could actually have an adverse affect. Tarps can restrict airflow within your system and may even lead to water damage and rust. So when it comes to rain, it’s best to leave your air conditioner alone.
When You Should Cover Your AC
Snowstorms are a much bigger hazard to AC units than rain is but, fortunately, we don’t get those in Florida. We do however experience tropical storms and hurricanes. In such extreme cases, covering your outdoor condenser unit may be a good idea.
While the rain is still not much of a threat, high winds can lead to damage from flying debris. While a tarp isn’t going to protect your AC from a fallen tree or branch, it will help to keep leaves, twigs and other items from getting lodged in your fan and coils. If you cover your unit during the storm, you’ll have less to clean up later.
After the Storm
If you decide to cover your condenser unit during an especially heavy storm, it’s best to remove the tarp as soon as the storm lets up. Clear debris from the area around the unit and anything that may have made onto the condenser’s grill or side panels. Over time, built up debris can cause clogs and make your air conditioner less efficient.
While your AC should be perfectly fine after the average rainstorm, more severe weather events may lead to trouble. If your air conditioner is not working properly after a storm, contact Sea Coast Air Conditioning immediately. Regular maintenance and cleaning is also very important during the summer months to make sure your system stays running at peak performance. Whether you need a speedy repair or a thorough tuneup, call Sea Coast today!