In the wake of a storm, your air conditioning system might be one of the many casualties. Floodwater can wreak havoc on HVACR systems, leading to potential electrical hazards, contamination, and long-term damage. It’s crucial to approach the situation with caution and take the necessary steps to ensure your safety and the integrity of your system.
This guide will walk you through the essential steps to take if your home is flooded or your AC system is covered in water. We’ll discuss topics from safely disconnecting power to understanding whether to repair or replace your unit. We’ll also cover how to document damage for insurance claims, avoid contractor scams, and utilize valuable resources provided by organizations like the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA).
By following these basic guidelines, you can navigate the recovery process more effectively and restore your home to a safe and comfortable state.
Before approaching your HVACR system after a flood, the most critical step is to turn off the power. This prevents electrical hazards and potential damage to the system. Here are the steps:
If you’re unsure how to do this safely or encounter difficulties, contact a qualified contractor immediately.
Even if your HVACR system appears externally unharmed, floodwaters can leave behind hidden dangers like silt, bacteria, and debris. Attempting to operate a flood-affected system can lead to further damage, potentially irreparable, and create unhealthy indoor air quality.
Always contact a licensed HVACR technician to assess the system before restarting it and if you have concerns about air quality ask the technician to perform an air quality test. To find a local contractor, visit the ACCA Contractor Locator at https://hvac-contractors.acca.org/locator
When the HVACR technician inspects your system, they will check for various issues:
After widespread flooding events, HVACR technicians often face a surge in service calls, leading to potential delays. Be prepared for a backlog and consider addressing immediate needs yourself, such as removing standing water and drying the affected areas.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends avoiding direct contact with contaminated flood water, washing hands frequently with soap, and not allowing children to play in flood water or with toys contaminated by flood water.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasizes the importance of not driving through flooded areas, avoiding contact with flood water, and using clean, safe water for drinking and food preparation. They also recommend wearing rubber boots, sturdy shoes, and waterproof gloves, and using insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes.
In the chaotic aftermath of a natural disaster, be wary of individuals posing as contractors. Always verify credentials, check for proper licensing, and ask for proof of insurance. Consider contacting your insurance company for recommendations and be cautious of anyone demanding upfront full payment for services.
Be cautious of contractors who try to rush you into making a decision, offer extremely low prices, or refuse to provide written estimates. These are common tactics used by scammers.
Avoid scammers who insist you pay for services by wire transfer, gift card, payment app, cryptocurrency or in cash. Avoid anyone who promises they can help you qualify for relief from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) ― for a fee.
FEMA will never require you to pay a fee to get disaster relief. Never sign your insurance check over to someone else.
Based on the technician’s assessment, you might face the decision to repair or replace your system. Factors influencing this decision include the extent of the damage, the age of your current system, and the overall cost comparison.
Unfortunately, replacement is often necessary. While equipment is made to sit outside and is protected from typical weather, electrical components are not in an airtight enclosure. Exposure to moisture is not the same as sitting in flood water. Many times, flooded equipment will need to be replaced entirely. This is especially true for components containing steel, which can be prone to rust, and electrical components, which can be damaged by water and pose a fire risk.
However, if the damage isn’t too severe, cleaning and restoring the AC system might be possible.
We understand that there’s a lot of misinformation out there, often unintentional. However, organizations like the ACCA are here to provide valuable resources for both contractors and homeowners dealing with flood-damaged HVACR systems.
ACCA is dedicated to writing and training the industry on best practices. ACCA’s website www.acca.org, offers access to industry standards, such as ACCA Standard 6 – Restoring the Cleanliness of HVAC Systems for Residential and Commercial Applications which sets the minimum requirements for cleaning HVACR systems. It covers:
This standard ensures HVACR systems are cleaned effectively, maintaining indoor air quality and system performance.
Remember, your safety and well-being are paramount. By understanding the potential risks associated with flood-damaged HVACR systems and taking appropriate precautions, you can begin the process of restoring your home and life back to normal.
To find a local contractor, visit the ACCA Contractor Locator at https://hvac-contractors.acca.org/locator
