Did you know that extensive water damage from your heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system can affect your commercial and residential property? Necessary care in maintaining a healthy system avoids the possibility of common issues such as frozen pipes, coils, and clogged drains that may need the attention of an expert. Learn how to prevent HVAC water damage with these tips below!

Having your unit inspected by a professional annually can aid in prolonging the life of your system. Prevent small leaks from turning into bigger headaches which may result in unexpected heating or cooling expenses. Checking for leaks should be part of your regular maintenance task as it’s stated that 10% of homes have leaks that waste over 90 gallons or more per day.

Find the Problem

A vital step in knowing what may be wrong with the HVAC unit is identifying the issues. This first step will help you determine how to proceed after possibly discovering the problem. These issues may not be easily noticeable while doing a DIY home inspection, even with the help of using the unit’s manual book. The best alternative to check the system and dissect it would be to request a professional inspection. Once the concerns have been identified, it’s time to fix the problem to create a healthier system.

Fix the Problem

Fixing an overflowing drip pan is critical to avoid water damage in your home. Water damage can lead to even bigger headaches, which can result in needing to contact a professional to remove all traces of moisture. Since drip pans are either made from plastic or metal they’re known to become damaged if not inspected routinely. Being willing to clean the pan with a solution to get rid of any growth of foreign substances will aid in inspecting it for cracks at the same time. Typically once the pan is full, the water is siphoned out of your home through polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipe called a drain line. If the drain line is clogging the flow of water from spawning algae or even mold, attach a wet/dry vacuum to suck the clog out. Afterward, avoid overflow that backs up into your home by installing a device that will shut off the A/C unit automatically.

Utilize Preventative Maintenance

A proper maintenance visit from a trained technician or DIY requires various functions to ensure your HVAC is operating at maximum efficiency. Maintaining it is your best defense when it comes to prolonging the life of your equipment. In addition, obtaining a home warranty plan also supports covering the cost of repair or replacement of your critical system. Avoid surprise breakdowns of your equipment and continue to reap the prominent benefits of your HVAC system. Understanding these ways to maintain an HVAC system can aid in evading water to your property.

Ways to prevent HVAC Water Damage

Change the HVAC Air Filter

• • Regular changes improve performance and prevent the unit from overworking when it may be old, dusty, or clogged.
  • Consider changing once a month with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters depending on how often you use the HVAC system and what type it is.

Clean the Condenser

• • Clean the exterior with a garden hose at low pressure to allow airflow to work efficiently.
  • Remove any signs of debris and dirt from the area.

Maintain the Condensation Drain Line

• • Check the line opening to ensure water flow to the drain. The amount of water will depend on the humidity level in the house.
  • Use a solution to flush out your drain and to prevent the mass of algae and mold from clogging the line.

Request a Professional HVAC Inspection

• • Experts can identify and fix all related problems related to HVAC components.

In regards to outdoor HVAC units located in places with harsh weather conditions such as hurricanes, flooding, and tornadoes, take action to limit more stress. Higher foundations should and can be built by contractors that are aware of safety codes, as well as an enclosed wall around your system to prevent most debris from hitting and damaging it significantly. In cases of recurrent flooding, suggest relocating the unit to a basement or attic. Much needed remodeling of ductwork and electrical wiring would be costly but it will completely protect the HVAC unit.

Water damage can cause a lot of discomfort to your home or business property, belongings, and the health of family and employees. Minor problems can turn into bigger ones if gone unnoticed for longer than 48 hours. Prevent problems to your critical systems with regular maintenance and the assistance of a trusted professional.

If you do experience water damage, be sure to the call Woodard at 314-227-3932 for immediate assistance. If the water is not properly dried out you could have mold begin to develop which you do not want growing in your home or business.

About Woodard Cleaning & Restoration

Woodard was founded in 1946 by Earl and Nancy Woodard. Today, their grandson, Justin Woodard, is the third-generation president and CEO. Located in St. Louis, Missouri, Woodard began as a cleaning company and expanded to offer fire and water mitigation, mold remediation and reconstruction, as well as board-up, smoke restoration and hard surface cleaning. Woodard has the most capable employees in the industry! With a mission of Helping People Get Back to Their Lives, Woodard serves both residential and commercial clients in the greater metro area. Woodard takes pride in investing in their employees and is recognized by the St. Louis Post Dispatch as a Top Workplace. For information or questions submit a form online or call us at 314-227-3932.

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Updated 9/27/2021