When a raging storm hits, you may be worried about external damage to your property, home or outdoor HVAC units. However, did you know that a storm can also cause internal damage? Sudden power outages due to big storms can cause damage to your AC’s inner electronics, which may be why your AC is not working after a storm.
If this is the case, you may need a licensed technician to help, or you can try a quick and easy reset to see if that gets things running again. Follow our tips below to learn more about restarting your AC after a storm.
How Storms Can Affect Your HVAC Systems
Whether there are forceful winds, pelting hail, or a flash flood, storms spell trouble for all sorts of outdoor appliances.
Most commonly, though, a summer storm may result in high winds knocking down a line, cutting power to your area. Even after power is restored to your property, your AC may still have trouble cooling the air in your home, if it turns back on at all.
Signs Your AC Unit Was Impacted by a Storm
Reduced cooling efficiency/failure to turn on
Power outages and water pooling around an AC unit can damage the electronics. Although your AC unit is built to withstand rainwater, it’s never meant to be immersed in water. If you notice any flooding around your property, it’s best to shut down your AC unit until a technician arrives.
Loud or unusual noises coming from the unit
If you hear strange noises coming from the unit, this may be due to strong winds lodging debris and other particles inside the compartment. Turn the AC off and check if there is anything in there that shouldn’t be. If parts are loose or damaged, call a technician.
How Do I Reset My AC After a Power Surge?
If your AC doesn’t have power, you’ll want to check your circuit breaker. If the breaker switch is flipped, then it’s an easy fix. If it still doesn’t turn on, you’ll want to call a technician to investigate further.
If you notice your AC is blowing warm air or the AC blower is not working after a power outage, try resetting your unit by powering it off, waiting a few minutes, and then powering it back on again. If issues still persist, then you should await expert advice.
How to Prevent Storm Damage
If you notice a nasty storm rolling in, the best preventative measure you can take is to flip off your AC unit. By powering down your air conditioner during a thunderstorm, you’ll have a better chance of saving it from electrical damage. Shutting the unit off can also limit damage from a possible lightning strike.
If you live in a location that frequently sees lightning or large storms, consider investing in a protection system, utilizing lightning and ground rods to create an alternative path for lighting strikes.
If you live in an area prone to flooding or heavy rain, install the outdoor components of your HVAC systems on an elevated platform to avoid having them sit in standing water.
If you require assistance with HVAC after a storm, contact Noll ClimateCare to help. With 24/7 emergency services, we can get your home comfort back up and running in no time.
