How Severe Weather Can Affect Your Air Conditioner

When summer reaches its peak, your AC may work extra hard to keep your the U.S. home cool and comfortable. While many summer days are warm and beautiful, most areas of the country are no stranger to extreme weather. Stormy conditions, and even days with significant heat and humidity, can impact your air conditioner’s performance, efficiency and the length of its working life. Explore the many ways weather can affect your air conditioner and how to protect it.

Impact of Weather on Your Air Conditioner

Performance

A variety of weather conditions can alter how well your air conditioning unit works. On especially hot days, the AC has to work harder to attain and hold the set temperature. The increased workload could lead to an overloaded system, causing a breakdown.

Excessive humidity also poses a challenge. Although air conditioners are supposed to dehumidify the air as they cool it, excessive humidity can put extra pressure on the system. This can result in reduced performance and a less comfortable home.

Efficiency

Heat waves force your air conditioner to run constantly, leading to a spike in energy bills. If your AC system is not designed or put in properly, it may struggle to meet the cooling demand under these conditions.

Conversely, the condensing unit is in danger if operated in subfreezing conditions. Attempting to run the air conditioning when the outdoor unit is covered in ice could damage the compressor, decreasing efficiency and possibly ruining your cooling system.

Weather-Induced Damage

Substantial rain, wind, hail or snow can inflict damage on your outdoor AC unit. Debris from storms can prevent airflow, reduce system efficiency or damage the metal. Should water flood the system, corrosion or short-circuiting may occur, shortening the life of your unit.

Protecting Your Air Conditioner from Severe Weather

The outdoor AC unit is sensitive to severe weather, but you can take measures to protect it. Here’s how to shield your air conditioner from severe incoming weather:

• Install your air conditioner in the shade: A shaded outdoor unit doesn’t have to operate as vigorously, enhancing efficiency and prolonging the unit’s life span. If possible, put the AC on the north or east side of your home or in another place that is shaded during the hot afternoon.
• Invest in an air conditioner cover: AC covers provide a protective shield. During the cooler months or when severe weather is predicted, consider covering your air conditioner to protect it from flying debris, falling ice and deep snowfall. Just make sure you don’t attempt to operate the air conditioner while the outdoor unit is covered.
• Maintain your HVAC system regularly: Routine maintenance is a proactive measure to enhance your AC unit’s durability. After all, a tuned-up air conditioner is less likely to break under the stress of elevated temperatures or humidity. Regular cleaning, filter replacement and detailed inspections ensure your system remains in top-notch condition and is ready to keep you cool and comfortable in any weather.
• Install a surge protector: Power surges are a common byproduct of storms that can harm your AC unit’s electrical hardware. Installing a surge protector adds another level of defense. As an alternative, you can easily turn off your air conditioning during severe weather by flipping the circuit breaker.
• Secure and elevate your outdoor unit: Gusty winds can cause the outdoor air conditioning unit to tip or move. Similarly, rising water can cover the internal elements. Be sure your outdoor unit is completely secured and raised on bricks or platforms designed to protect it from wind and water damage.
• Clear your yard of debris: Always keep the space around your air conditioner clear of loose objects that could become harmful projectiles. This helps protect against denting and other physical damage during the course of severe weather.

Checking on Your AC After a Storm

In the aftermath of extreme weather, follow these steps to make sure your air conditioner is able to continue to function safety:

• Conduct a visual inspection: When the sky clears, go out and view your unit. Look for damage such as dents, exposed wires or an off-kilter base.
• Clear debris: Clean off any leaves, branches and other debris to maximize airflow and efficiency.
• Look for water damage: If your neighborhood sustained flooding, check for water damage. If you suspect water got into the unit, it’s best not to turn it on until you have it professionally evaluated.
• Schedule a quick repair: In the case of storm damage, don’t delay air conditioning repair, or you risk higher energy expenses, a reduced life span or total system breakdown.

Contact Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning

No one wants to deal with severe weather, but it’s essential to be prepared and understand how to recover. At Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning, we offer post-storm inspections and repairs to ensure your AC works safely and efficiently. Our professionals can handle all your AC service needs in the U.S., including maintenance, repair and replacement. Don’t let severe weather impact your home’s comfort—phone a Service Experts office near you for more information or to schedule a visit today.