Can Rain Damage Your Outdoor Unit?

It’s completely normal and understandable to be a little protective of your HVAC unit. After all, it isn’t cheap to install, it can be costly to repair and it’s inconvenient to replace. When you look at the outdoor unit of your HVAC system, you may fret over whether or not the rain this spring will damage such a valuable piece of equipment.

At Southern Air Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, we know just how frustrating a damaged heating and cooling system can be. However, we also know just how vulnerable your outdoor unit really is, as well as how to care for it during changes in weather.

Is It Bad If My Outdoor Unit Gets Rained On?

Whoever engineered your outdoor HVAC unit had weather in mind. When your system is exposed to an average storm, it won’t experience rain damage to its outdoor unit components. In fact, sometimes it’s actually helpful for your unit to be rinsed off by the rain. Twigs and leaves can get jammed into the various cracks and crevices of your unit over time, making it harder for the air conditioning or heating system to run efficiently. The rain can dislodge the debris, freeing up the system and improving its efficiency.

What Happens If My Unit Is Exposed To Flooding?

While rain doesn’t typically damage your outdoor unit, flooding can. Severe storms and hurricanes can cause water to rise, allowing it to enter your unit and damage its components. During these storms, flying debris can also clog or smash into your unit, leading to further damage.

If flood waters rise above 15 inches, shut off your HVAC unit and reach out to a professional like Southern Heating, Cooling & Plumbing. Even if your system seems to be working fine, standing water inside your unit can lead to corrosion and more significant damage in the future. It’s best to be cautious and hire a professional to check on your unit, especially since it can save you money in the long run.

Is It Okay To Cover My Outdoor Unit?

Many homeowners choose to cover their outdoor units during particularly rainy or snowy months. However, covering your unit with an inadequate cover, such as trash bags or tarp, can actually lead to damage, trapping water closer to the unit’s surface.This can lead to rust and corrosion. If you want to keep leaves or other debris from entering your unit, you can purchase a mesh cover to place over it. This option prevents the trapping of water while still repelling unwanted items. You can also place a slab of plywood on top of your unit for overhead protection. This can prevent damage from falling icicles or branches that hang over your unit.

Schedule Your Baton Rouge HVAC Repairs

If your heating or cooling unit is in need of repairs in Baton Rouge, Southern Air Heating, Cooling, & Plumbing is ready to help. Whether your unit has been damaged by flooding or is experiencing some other damage, we have experienced technicians that can help you out. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!