What to Do If Your HVAC System Is Flooded

Storms, Rain, and Rising Water Wreak Havoc in Texas and North Carolina

As communities across Texas and North Carolina recover from this summer’s historic floods – and continue search and rescue efforts and medical response – many homeowners are beginning to assess the damage. One issue that may not come to mind right away, but quickly becomes urgent as temperatures rise, is whether their air conditioning system still works.

Your HVAC system, particularly the outdoor condenser unit, is built to withstand rain and regular exposure to the elements. But flooding is another story entirely.

In this article, we’ll explain how flooding affects your HVAC system, what to do if it’s been submerged, and how to protect your system moving forward.

How Much Water Is Too Much for Your Air Conditioner?

The outdoor AC condenser sits next to your home, exposed to the weather such as snow, sleet, rain, and sun. A few inches of rain splashing around the base typically isn’t a problem; air conditioners are built to handle rain and moisture.

In fact, hosing down your condenser to clean it is not only safe, it’s encouraged as part of routine maintenance. Water helps remove built-up dirt and debris on the condenser coil, which can otherwise restrict airflow and force the system to work harder. It even temporarily improves energy efficiency as it evaporates and helps cool the unit down.

But there’s a big difference between rinsing your unit and having it submerged in floodwater.

Why Flooding Is Dangerous for Your HVAC System

Flooding can cause serious damage to your HVAC system. Even though the components are shielded, submersion can allow water to penetrate electrical parts. That can lead to short-circuiting, corrosion, or even a complete system failure.

Here’s what else can go wrong:

• Electrical damage: Prolonged submersion can destroy internal components like capacitors, wiring, and circuit boards.
• Clogged coils: Debris carried by floodwater can block the condenser coil, leading to overheating.
• Rust and corrosion: Water accelerates rust on metal parts, shortening your system’s lifespan.
• System failure and damage: Severe flooding can cause hidden damage that may not show up right away, often leading to system failure or the need for a full HVAC replacement. That’s why it’s essential to have a licensed technician inspect the system before turning it back on.

Will Insurance Cover a Flooded Air Conditioner?

It depends on your policy. Many homeowners are surprised to learn that flood damage isn’t always covered under standard home insurance. Even flood insurance policies may not automatically include HVAC systems unless they’re specifically listed.

Here’s what to check:

• Homeowners insurance typically covers sudden, accidental damage – like storm-related issues – but may exclude flooding unless it comes from inside the home (like a burst pipe).
• Flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or a private insurer may cover HVAC components, but not always by default.

Take time to review your policies. If you live in a flood-prone area, consider adding coverage for your HVAC system to avoid a costly surprise later.

How to Flood-Proof Your HVAC System

Being proactive can make a big difference. While you can’t always prevent flooding, you can minimize the risk of HVAC damage with these precautions:

• Install an AC stand: Elevating your condenser unit above potential flood levels can prevent water from reaching critical components.
• Improve yard drainage: Direct water away from your home and HVAC system with proper grading and drainage solutions.
• Add a flood barrier: In especially flood-prone areas, some homeowners build protective barriers or enclosures around their HVAC systems.
• Protect basement systems: If your unit is located in a basement, consider placing it on a raised platform or stand, and make sure sump pumps and drainage are working correctly.

That said, even the best defenses can fall short in a severe tropical storm. After major flooding, your best bet is to bring in the pros.

What to Do After Flooding

Once the water recedes, don’t rush to restart your HVAC system. Instead, take the following steps:

1. Call a Professional HVAC Technician

If your HVAC system has been flooded, this isn’t the time for DIY. A licensed technician should inspect the system before it’s turned back on to ensure it’s safe and functional.

During a post-flood inspection, technicians follow a careful process:

• Safety first: They’ll disconnect power to avoid electrical hazards.
• Full system inspection: The tech will check for visible damage, water lines inside the unit, blocked coils or fans, corrosion, and ductwork issues.
• Electrical testing: Components like wiring, capacitors, and circuit boards are tested and replaced if damaged.
• Refrigerant check: They’ll look for leaks or contamination in the refrigerant lines and make necessary repairs.
• Thorough cleaning and drying: Specialized tools are used to remove all moisture and debris, and sanitize the system if needed.
• Final testing: Once everything is clean and dry, they’ll run the system to ensure it’s operating safely and efficiently.

Even if the unit seems to work at first, hidden damage can cause it to fail early or lead to expensive repairs, so a professional inspection is a must.

2. Don’t Ignore Warning Signs

Even after cleaning, if your system is:

• Struggling to cool
• Making strange noises
• Emitting unusual smells
• Leaking

…it likely needs deeper repairs or component replacements.

3. Shut Off Power to the Unit

Before anyone inspects or touches your flooded air conditioning system, make sure the power is turned off at the breaker box. This prevents electrical hazards.