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HVAC unit outside during the winter.

Can Rain and Snow Ruin My Outdoor HVAC Unit?

Your outdoor HVAC unit is a very important part of your heating and cooling system. You may find yourself worried about your unit when it rains or snows. The good news is that your outdoor unit is sturdy and built to withstand snow and heavy rain. 

Weather and Your HVAC System

The outdoor cover of your HVAC system helps to protect both the compressor and the condenser. The electrical wires in the unit are in corrosion-proof metals, alloys, or plastic. Rain can be useful for your outdoor unit as it will wash away debris that is stuck inside the unit. But, flooding and windblown debris can cause problems for your outdoor system.

Flooding

While bouts of heavy rain will not harm your unit, when it comes to flooding, it can cause damage. If your air conditioning unit becomes submerged, it could cause issues. The most common issues it causes are with the motor, electronics, and the wiring. If you live in an area where it floods often, you may want to lift your HVAC unit to where it cannot flood. Building a platform for the unit is easy, and most people can DIY. If you are not the DIY type, or you are unsure of how to build it, ask your local HVAC professional. They will be able to give you tips on how you can prevent flooding from harming your unit.

Protecting from Windblown Debris

During storms, winds can be high and blow things into your unit. This can cause the condenser fan to become clogged. Once the condenser fan becomes clogged, your unit will not work well. Running it can cause extensive damage. Keep an eye on your unit during a storm to ensure that no debris becomes trapped inside. If debris becomes trapped, call out an HVAC technician before trying to start the unit.

How to Protect Your HVAC Unit

There are several things that you can do to protect your HVAC system from damage during rain and snow. These things include:

  • Inspect the placement. You will want to have your unit placement checked to make sure that it is in a good location. You may need to move it if the area it sits in is prone to flooding.
  • Repair and replace. If you need a repair, it is imperative that you get it done as soon as possible. Left untreated, minor repairs can lead to major repairs.
  • Get regular maintenance. It is imperative that you get regular maintenance checks from an HVAC professional. This will help to ensure that there are no problems with your system and that it is running at peak efficiency.

Call Us Today

At Harwich Port Heating and Cooling, our team of technicians are here to help ensure that your unit runs. If you are having any issues with your heating and cooling system, please do not hesitate to give us a call today.