4 Signs Your AC Was Damaged in a Storm
Air conditioners are built to withstand the harsh outdoor elements, but that doesn’t mean they’re impervious to storms. High winds, flooding, and hail can all take a toll on your AC. Here in Olathe, where we experience intense summer storms and the occasional tornado, it’s important to be aware of how the weather can impact your air conditioner. There are certain signs you should keep an eye out for that indicate your AC is damaged and requires repairs.
1. Loud, Unusual Sounds
You should never ignore sudden, loud noises coming from your air conditioner. High winds can jostle the fan loose and even lodge debris into the unit. As a result, you may notice alarming sounds like screeching, buzzing, or rattling. Luckily, this is an issue you may be able to solve on your own with a little elbow grease and determination.
Start by cleaning away any debris stuck to the outside of the unit. Next, remove the fan from the top of the unit after cutting the power. Using a garden hose, carefully rinse both the inside and outside of the unit. If you notice any of the other “fins” have been bent, you can bend those back into place with a butter knife. Once you’re done, simply replace the fan and turn the power back on. On the other hand, if you can’t pinpoint the cause of the sound, call us for help.
2. Burning Electrical Odor
An acrid burning smell from your AC is cause for alarm. This is usually caused by an electrical problem and should be addressed right away. The problem might be a short circuit, a broken motor, or damaged wiring. If you notice a burning odor, call our technicians right away and let them know what’s going on. In the meantime, power down your air conditioning system. Cutting the power will help prevent further damage to the unit and also reduce the risk of electrical fire.
3. Water Pooling Near Unit
The external unit of your cooling system, called the condenser, should never be submerged in water. That’s why they’re usually built on a cement slab to raise them safely above ground level. However, storms can create a situation where the unit is suddenly submerged. The cause could be a flash flood, or it may be that refrigerant is leaking from the unit and puddling near the base. Both situations are emergencies and should be addressed by a professional ASAP. Turn off the unit using the circuit breaker while you wait for help to arrive. For your own safety, don’t step into the water around the unit while electricity is still flowing. This can cause a nasty shock!
4. Reduced Cooling Capacity
In some cases, the signs of a storm-damaged air conditioner won’t be as dramatic as what we discussed above. Instead, you may notice something subtler, like your AC struggling to keep up with the summer heat. If you notice the temperature in your house creeping up after a storm, it should be inspected for damage. Other signs can include weak airflow, short cycling, or not being able to turn the unit on or off.
A professional will be able to pinpoint the exact cause of damage. Some of the most common cooling issues we see after storms are refrigerant leaks, clogged condenser coils, and damaged motors. Whatever the cause, our technician will arrive with a fully stocked truck, ready to make quick work of the repairs.
Olathe’s Local AC Repair Experts
With high winds, heavy rain, and hail, it’s easy to see why storms can be catastrophic for your AC. It’s common during summer to see outdoor units damaged or even destroyed by inclement weather. Fortunately, the expert technicians from Mike Bryant Heating & Cooling are here to get your cooling system up and running again.
Whether you need fast, high-quality repairs or a full replacement, we have the right solution for you. Our team has proudly served Olathe and Kansas City since 2004. We are A+ rated by the Better Business Bureau and service all makes and models of air conditioners. We offer a full range of heating and cooling services, including maintenance, repair, and replacement, in addition to boiler and heat pump service. We’re your go-to partner for all of your home heating and cooling needs!
Call Mike Bryant Heating & Cooling today to schedule cooling service in Olathe!
