How To Prevent Air Conditioner Water Damage
Summer is right around the corner! Temperatures have been heating up slowly which means everyone is gearing up and getting ready for another hot San Diego summer. It will be well over 100 degrees before we know it, so it’s time to start taking the necessary precautions to make sure your air conditioner does its job and doesn’t give you any more of a headache than the heat already will be.
Here are some steps you can take to prevent air conditioner water damage.
Change Your Filter
It is important to change the filter in your air conditioner once a month. If you forget, the airflow through your air conditioner can become clogged which can result in possible water damage. Also, if you have a window unit air conditioner that is close to the ground, make sure it is clear of all vegetation. Tall grass, bushes, or trees can grow around the condenser if left unattended to, causing the evaporator coil to work much harder than it is supposed to. If this happens, the coil can possibly freeze over, leaving it to defrost and melt into your house.
Get Annual Inspections
Before you start using your air conditioning on a regular basis, make sure have it inspected by a professional. During the inspection, the technician will check the main and emergency drain valves to insure there is no blockage and/or leaks that may cause air conditioner water damage over time. You may want to consider asking the technician to do an algaecide treatment on your unit, which stops algae growth in the drain lines.
Install A Safety Float
If you don’t already have one of these installed for your air conditioner, now is the time. Safety float switches shut off the power to your air conditioner when there is water build up in the drain pan. In addition, this switch will also alert you if there is a serious problem before air conditioner water damage occurs.
Once you’ve taken all of these necessary steps, you’re safe for the summer! Remember, change your air filter routinely and always check your air conditioner from time to time to make sure there are no water leaks. If you do run into problems, 3D Environmental is here to help with all your water damage needs.
