Floods & Air Conditioners

Flood Preparation

• There are a number of steps the homeowner can take to limit the damage of a high-water incident. Turn off the electricity to the home including the air conditioner. Also turn off the gas and water to the home. Electrical circuits exposed to water can short circuit and cause damage to the appliance and even pose a risk of fire. Sandbag dikes around the air conditioner compressor can also limit damage.

Drying the Equipment

• Use a hair dryer or other air blower to dry out the motor and circuitry of the air conditioner. Apply oil to any moving parts, such as fans or belts, for lubrication. Use spray contact cleaner to clean and dry any electrical connections. Dry both the outdoor compressor unit and the indoor condenser unit of the central air conditioner system. If you are uncomfortable working with electrical appliances, contact a licensed heating and cooling professional to dry out the air conditioner and get it running.

Clearing the Ducts

• Central air conditioners use the homes air ducts to move cool air through the home. Flood water accumulations in the duct work can lead to mold and mildew, and mold spores can pose a health problem. Cleaning the ducts completely before starting the air conditioner is critical for the safety of the home and its inhabitants.

Electrical Service

• Before the air conditioner can be started, the home electrical service must be restored. In severe flood situations, this may require an inspection by a certified electrician before the power is restored.