Air conditioner (AC) manufacturers design their systems to run through minor weather elements without much damage. However, an extreme storm can affect your AC to the point where the AC cannot run and cool your house. Below are some of the specific ways a storm can damage the AC.

Power Surge

A typical storm can trigger power surges in various ways. For one, an extreme storm can bring down power lines, which can create contact between high-voltage lines and cause a power surge. Another example is if the storm is accompanied by lightning strikes, which can strike the electrical connections in the house or even the AC itself and send a huge surge of power into the AC.

In either case, the electrical overload can fry electrical and electronic parts of the AC, such as the electronic control board (ECB), the fan motor, the thermostat, and other parts. Any of those issues can lead to AC malfunction.

Debris Clogging

A serious storm can also clog your AC unit, specifically the outside condenser unit, with debris. Debris can come in the form of dirty floodwater or the form of windblown debris. Soil particles, leaves, and neighborhood trash can all clog the condenser unit. A clogged condenser unit won't be able to exchange heat with the outside air. This will not only reduce the AC's cooling efficiency, but it will also force the AC to overwork, leading to frequent malfunctions due to increased wear and tear.

Physical Damage

An extreme storm can also cause physical damage to various parts of the AC. For example, strong winds or floodwaters can destabilize the condenser unit from its usual base. Large debris or items such as garden furniture can damage the delicate condenser fins. The AC can even suffer electrical disconnection on some of its parts. Damage to the refrigerant lines can lead to refrigerant leaks. The effects of these physical damages will depend on the nature of the damages.

Water Exposure

Lastly, there is also a risk of your AC getting damaged by extreme water exposure. Again, it is the condenser unit that is most vulnerable since it sits outside the house. The condenser unit can handle a little water, but it will be affected if it sits underwater for prolonged periods. Corrosion or short circuits of electrical contacts can ensue under such conditions.

Given the above, it makes sense to inspect the AC after a serious storm hits your home. That way, you will be able to deal with the damages before they can intensify. Contact a company like Extreme Climates for more information on taking care of your air conditioning system.

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