Your air conditioning system consists of both indoor and outdoor components. Unfortunately, the nature of air conditioning means that the most critical and expensive components must live outdoors. Since the system moves heat from inside your home to the outside environment, the condenser needs access to open air for proper operation.

Sitting outside means your condenser (as well as parts of your line set and electrical cabling) must routinely face exposure to the elements. Average weather isn't typically a problem, but what about major storms? Hurricanes or even severe thunderstorms can pose a hazard to your air conditioning equipment, so it's helpful to understand when it might require repair or replacement.

How Can Storms Damage Your AC?

Storms usually impact air conditioning systems in two separate ways: physical damage from wind-blown objects and flooding. Most components in your condenser are resistant enough to water that rain doesn't pose much of a threat. Even if you expect heavy, continuous rainfall, you shouldn't need to worry about the condenser or take any particular actions to protect it.

Flooding can certainly cause damage, however. You should always locate your condenser in an area with good drainage, and you can elevate the entire unit if necessary. Raising your condenser above the ground can also protect it from rodents and other pests. If a storm does cause your condenser to submerge for any prolonged period, you'll probably need to replace the entire unit.

Physical damage is another concern when dealing with severe weather events. Since the condenser coils need good airflow, they're also necessarily exposed to damage from flying debris. Branches or other projectiles can also become lodged in the condenser fan located on top of the unit. Damage to the coils or the fan can both prevent your air conditioner from functioning efficiently or at all.

What Can You Do?

You should always examine your AC system once it's safe to do so. Look for signs of bent coils and check the fan for lodged objects. If you're comfortable getting your hands dirty, you can shut the unit off and remove the cover panels on the condenser to check for damage more closely. Once the air conditioner is off, you can also safely remove any objects lodged near the fan on the top.

Don't forget to look for evidence of flood damage. Water can sometimes drain before you have a chance to conduct an inspection, so keep an eye out for signs that floodwaters submerged the condenser for any period. If you think your unit may have flooded, avoid using it and schedule a professional inspection as soon as you can.

In most cases, you won't need to worry about replacing a condenser following a storm. Unless you suffered severe flooding, any damage is likely to be minor and repairable. If you do spot any issues, contacting an HVAC technician right away is the best option to find a cost-effective solution without causing additional damage.

To learn more about aire conditioning, contact a specialist in Burleston, TX.