Living in Florida, especially in coastal areas, flooding can be a common issue, and if your air conditioning unit has been submerged in salt water, it’s important to act quickly. Salt water can be particularly corrosive to the components of your AC system, potentially causing significant damage if not addressed promptly.
At Big Air AC, we’ve seen firsthand the damage that salt water can do to AC units, and we’re here to help you navigate the steps to take if you believe your AC has been flooded. Here’s what to do if your AC unit has been exposed to salt water.
1. Turn Off the Power Immediately
Safety is the number one priority when dealing with a flooded AC unit. Turn off power to the unit at the circuit breaker to prevent any risk of electrical shock or short circuits. Do not attempt to operate the system until it has been inspected by a professional.
Running the unit while it’s wet or after it’s been exposed to salt water can cause further damage to electrical components, which are especially vulnerable to corrosion.
2. Inspect for Visible Damage
Once it’s safe, visually inspect the outdoor unit for any signs of damage. Common indicators that your unit has been exposed to salt water include:
Corrosion or rust on metal components
Debris like seaweed, sand, or dirt lodged around the unit
Signs of water pooling around the base of the unit
While a surface inspection won’t reveal all of the damage, it can give you an idea of the severity of the situation.
3. Do Not Turn the Unit Back On
Even if the water has receded and the unit appears dry, do not turn the unit back on until it has been inspected by a licensed HVAC technician. Salt water can cause internal damage to your system’s electrical components, fan motors, and refrigerant lines. Operating the system without a professional assessment can lead to permanent damage and costly repairs.
4. Call a Professional HVAC Technician
As soon as possible, contact a professional HVAC technician to inspect your AC system. At Big Air AC, we specialize in evaluating and repairing flood-damaged units, and we’ll assess the full extent of the damage. A thorough inspection will include:
Checking the electrical connections and controls for corrosion
Inspecting the refrigerant lines and compressor for damage
Flushing and cleaning the system to remove any salt deposits
Evaluating whether any parts need to be replaced
If salt water has entered the coils or motor, these components may need to be cleaned or replaced to prevent long-term damage.
5. Clean or Replace the Outdoor Unit
In some cases, your outdoor unit may be salvageable with a thorough cleaning. Salt water can cause rapid corrosion, so your technician will likely recommend flushing the system with fresh water to remove any salt deposits. However, if the damage is extensive, particularly to the electrical components or compressor, it may be necessary to replace the outdoor unit.
If the unit needs to be replaced, your technician can help you choose a system that is better suited to withstand coastal conditions.
6. Prevent Future Flood Damage
If your home is in a flood-prone area, consider these steps to protect your AC system from future flood damage:
Elevate the unit: Raising your outdoor unit on a platform several feet above ground level can help prevent water damage during future flooding events.
Install protective covers: Use heavy-duty covers or barriers to protect the unit from salt water exposure during storms.
Regular maintenance: Schedule routine maintenance checks to ensure that your system remains in good condition and any early signs of corrosion or wear are caught and addressed.
7. Check Your Warranty and Insurance Coverage
If your AC unit was damaged by salt water, check both your manufacturer’s warranty and homeowners insurance to see if you’re covered for flood damage. Some warranties may not cover damage caused by flooding or corrosion, but it’s worth verifying whether repairs or replacements could be partially or fully covered by your insurance policy.
8. Plan for Future Storms
Living in a coastal region means it’s essential to prepare for future storms. Consider the following:
Surge protection: Install surge protectors to protect your AC’s electrical components from power surges caused by storms.
Annual inspections: Have your AC system inspected annually, especially after major storms, to ensure that any minor damage is repaired before it becomes a larger issue.
At Big Air AC, we’re here to help you navigate the challenges of maintaining an AC system in a coastal environment. If you think your AC unit has been exposed to salt water, don’t wait—contact us right away to schedule an inspection. We’ll assess the damage, recommend the best course of action, and help protect your system from future flooding events.
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