HVAC Repairs After Storms: What to Inspect In Melbourne, FL
In Melbourne, we often think about hurricanes when we’re talking about storm damage. But, you’ll want to know that thunderstorms can also generate high winds, heavy rain and hail that potentially damages HVAC systems.
Once the storm passes, you’ll want to plan for the time to assess your HVAC for signs of damage. Using this guide can help you perform an HVAC inspection that helps you know when it’s time to call one of our pros for an HVAC repair.
Step Outside to Check the Outdoor Condenser Unit for Physical Damage
After sheltering indoors, it’s nice to step outside and see the sun. Since the outdoor condenser usually has the highest exposure to severe weather, this is a good place to begin checking for damage.
After a storm, check for these visible signs of problems:
Debris Blocking the Vents
High storm winds can blow anything into your yard. Finding your neighbor’s grill cover on your compressor might be amusing, but it could also mean serious damage is just around the corner.
Branches, patio umbrellas and other debris that get caught on the panels can halt air flow. With the unit off, remove any surface debris that you can. Then, check behind the panel to see if you notice any smaller debris that managed to get inside.
If so, then you may need one of our techs to perform maintenance that includes cleaning the fan blades and panel vents.
Physical Damage to the Panels or Fan Blades
Outdoor compressors are designed to be durable, but the materials are still susceptible to damage from heavy blows. Hail and tree branches often dent or crack compressor panels and fans. Seeing any major damage can also indicate that the system sustained a heavy enough blow to knock electrical wiring and hoses loose.
Standing Water Near or Around the Unit
Water pooling around the unit is never good, especially since this raises the risk of an electrical shock. Never enter water that is near an HVAC system. If you can’t reach the compressor, then it’s best to walk away and call one of our techs. Our professional HVAC technicians know how to stay safe when working near or around standing water.
Check for Flooded Components and Clear Signs of Water Damage
Before you begin checking for flooded components on your HVAC system, make sure to turn the power off. You’ll also want to consider your comfort with assessing electrical components after a storm.
If you aren’t trained on how to inspect HVAC systems, then use extreme caution. Inspecting the components you can without touching the system is often safe enough. Anything more than that may need an expert’s touch.
Make sure to watch for these signs that water has entered the unit:
- Seeing waterlines on the panel or exterior of the electrical panel
- Noting watermarks on nearby walls that are higher than the unit’s lowest point
- Detecting a musty odor from the vents or ductwork
- Noticing electrical concerns, such as hearing sizzling or popping
- Seeing water dripping or pooling from and around the system
Inspect the Electrical Connections and Thermostat Wiring
Water damage to the electrical components can do more than just cause you to sweat from an HVAC shutdown. You also risk building fires from short circuits and arcing if water gets into the components.
Power surges that commonly occur during thunderstorms can also damage the electrical panel and circuit breakers. The thermostat for your unit could also be ruined by electrical issues following a surge.
For a quick DIY inspection, check for any visible wires that are disconnected or appear to be water-damaged. If you spot any frayed wires, loose connections or exposed wiring, then don’t touch a thing.
Reach out for an HVAC repair before using the system. Our friendly techs will be out right away to assess the severity of the damage.
Listen and Feel: Be Suspicious of Any Odd Sounds or Poor Performance
If you feel confident that the unit didn’t sustain water damage or flooding, then you can take the next step to turn it on. Keep in mind that running a damaged system could lead to a need for more intensive repairs. Only take this step if you’re pretty sure that nothing is wrong.
Make sure the house is quiet before you turn the system on. Then, listen for any knocks, squeals or other odd noises that don’t seem normal. If you notice any burning smells, then shut the system off immediately.
If all goes well, then monitor the system to make sure it performs properly. Checking to see if air is flowing through the vents and that the thermostat operates well can help you determine if you can use the system now.
Schedule a Post-Storm HVAC Inspection With One of Our Friendly Techs
We offer around-the-clock services that continue as long as the road and weather conditions are safe for our crews to operate. If you fear that your HVAC system fell victim to a recent storm, then reach out for an inspection.
In the best-case scenario, we’ll remove any debris and give you the all clear to keep using the system. If you need an HVAC replacement or repair, then we’ll be here to help.
Stay Safe: Don’t Attempt Storm Repairs Yourself
Sometimes, what seems like a simple fix isn’t so easy. HVAC systems have moving parts, potentially hazardous refrigerant and wiring that could cause serious injury, especially if certain components are wet.
Taking the easy way out and calling our techs can save you from electrical shocks and other painful injuries. Our quick appointment response times also save you from dealing with mental stress when you have bigger issues to attend to during the storm cleanup.
Simplify Storm Damage Restoration With Melbourne One Hour Air Conditioning & Heating
From giving back your neighbor’s BBQ grill cover to removing tree limbs and branches, you already have a lot on your plate during post-storm cleanups in Melbourne, FL. Contact our team at Melbourne One Hour Air Conditioning and Heating for an HVAC inspection that lets you check off a major post-storm task.
As we always say, we’re on time or you won’t pay a dime. We’ll never waste your time waiting for an appointment when we know that time is of the essence for restoring your comfort and safety. While we wish we never had to worry about storms, we’re always glad to help with the recovery.