Rain is usually a great thing, right? But in overly wet areas, sometimes it can be a bit much, causing damage to our landscapes and even our homes. The fact is, rain may even adversely affect the HVAC system at times. Here are a few scenarios where you might need to find a solution for rain effects on your HVAC system:
Flooding
If heavy rain collects in your yard, be aware that your air conditioner can probably tolerate only up to a few inches of rainwater around the base for a very brief time. However, to be safe, you should probably raise the condenser (the outdoor section of the A/C, which includes the compressor, condenser and exhaust fan) or move it to a higher location. It’s a good idea to turn off the A/C as long as there is standing water affecting your unit.
Condensation
Excess condensation can be a problem in times of heavy rain storms, both inside the home and outdoors. If you are inclined to wrap up your outdoor unit to protect it, consult your HVAC contractor for guidance on if this is a good option to consider in your specific situation. Wrapping it in plastic can result in condensation, which may encourage mold growth, as well as the rotting of rubber parts.
Scouring
Sometimes heavy rainfall can scour around structures in the yard, undermining them and perhaps causing them to tilt. If this happens with the base on which your condenser is sitting, you should probably have it corrected or moved. A small tilt may not be an issue, but in general you want the condenser to be as level as possible.
Falling Rain
It probably can’t rain hard enough to directly harm your condenser, as HVAC systems are designed to be tough. However, hail and flying debris that sometimes accompany a severe storm are another story. Always rely on your professional HVAC contractor for all your HVAC system needs.
To learn more about rain effects on your HVAC system, contact Jackson and Sons. Providing service repair, maintenance tune ups and installation in Eastern North Carolina.
Jackson & Sons, Inc.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Eastern North Carolina (including Wayne, Johnston, Greene, Lenoir, Pitt and Duplin Counties) about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).
Credit/Copyright Attribution: “diego_torres_pixabay”
