While spring ushers in warm and gentle weather in some areas, it brings thunderstorms and rainfall to places like Clarkesville, Georgia. That’s why residents and businesses must protect their outdoor HVAC components. Understanding how wet conditions can affect your unit can help you protect your investment and identify issues that require air conditioning repair before they escalate.

A Guide to Wet Weather & HVAC Systems

Humidity 

High humidity levels increase corrosion rates, exposing your unit's copper parts to formic and acetic acids. This results in holes along your unit's copper lines that allow refrigerant to escape, freezing your coils and damaging the compressor. As soon as you notice discoloration on the copper surfaces—a telltale sign of corrosion—seek help from air conditioning repair experts.

Heavy Winds

Strong winds can force debris and other particles through the condenser's fan grill and inside the unit, damaging or blocking the blades. Eventually, this can slow the fan and affect your AC's performance. Your unit's physical integrity can also be jeopardized if the wind blows branches or other debris into it at high speeds.

Floods

AC units are designed to withstand rain, but floods 6 to 8 inches high can do severe damage. Your unit's electrical components like fuses, wiring, and circuits may malfunction, and dirt from the floodwaters can cling to the condenser coil, compromising your unit's efficiency. 

To avoid being electrocuted, never open a submerged unit even after flooding has subsided. Even if your AC shows no sign of physical damage, consult an expert for inspections and air conditioning repairs.

How to Protect Your AC From the Rain

Building a cover for your outdoor AC unit will give it maximum protection against debris, hail, and other weather elements. Don't cover it with plastic because this material traps moisture and speeds up corrosion. Opt for a wood or metal cover instead. 

Create a drainage system to lead water away from your AC, or have it installed in an elevated area to keep it safe from floods. Also, consider investing in a dehumidifier add-on that can help remove moisture from around your unit.

If rain has damaged your AC unit, rely on Mountain Air & Heating for air conditioning repairs. This HVAC contractor has been servicing Clarkesville, GA, and the surrounding counties for over a decade, providing reliable heating installations, furnace repairs, and other HVAC services. Regardless of your project's size, these experienced professionals will ensure you can enjoy comfortable temperatures in your home or office. Visit them online to learn more about their services, or call them at (706) 754-0075 with any questions.