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HVAC Systems and Rain

 Systems and Rain

With all the recent rain we’ve had in California now is a good time to discuss the effects of rain on HVAC systems. A split HVAC system is made up by two components the indoor air handler/evaporator and the outdoor condenser and compressor. The outdoor HVAC unit is built to withstand rain. However, if your unit is in need of service during extreme weather you may have to wait a bit longer for a service technician to come out and look at your system. This is especially true, if your HVAC unit is located on the roof.

Does Rain Affect the Air Conditioner?

The outdoor part of an HVAC system is built durably and designed to withstand exposure to rainfall and the outdoor elements throughout the varying seasons of the year. Most of the parts in the outdoor unit are made from aluminum, copper or metal, and the electrical components are sealed to keep them protected from rainfall. Therefore, rain will not cause any harm to the outdoor unit and it is safe to turn your air conditioner or furnace on.

What Can Cause Damage to the HVAC System?

However, keep in mind that extreme weather can cause harm to your HVAC system. Although, rain itself will not cause damage to the outdoor unit, the storm that accompanies the rain can. Any high winds can cause tree branches to fall and cause damage to the condenser grill or deposit leaves and other debris inside of the unit. Furthermore, a lightning storm can cause a power surge that can damage the compressor outdoors. During a lightning storm it would be best to turn the ac unit off at the breaker. While, the outdoor unit is able to withstand rainfall, it is not designed to stay submerged in standing water. If the outdoor unit becomes submerged, the wiring and other electrical components inside can be damaged. The outdoor unit must be dried out completely before you turn it back on. It is a good idea to have a professional HVAC company inspect your unit after any severe storms to protect your equipment’s life span.

Roof Leaks During Heavy Rainfall

Any roof leaks during rainfall can go unnoticed for some time. Any ongoing leaks have the potential of entering the HVAC ductwork. Ductwork is not usually waterproof. Furthermore, any water that enters the ductwork has the potential of staying there long after the rains have stopped. The water that remains can deteriorate the ductwork and cause mold inside the ducts. Not only will a roof leak cause damage to the ducts, but also to the attic insulation. Any damage to the insulation can cause your furnace and air conditioner to run longer cycles to compensate for increased heat transfer into and out of the attic.

Should Your Outdoor Unit Be Covered?

The outdoor unit has been built to withstand extreme temperatures and any moisture so it is not typically a good idea to cover it since it can cause more harm than good. Any trapped moisture can collect in the cover and lead to corrosion or other damage to the unit. Furthermore, never stack anything on top of the unit, especially when it is on. The outdoor unit needs proper airflow to effectively and efficiently operate.

Can the HVAC System Be Serviced In The Rain?

The general rule is that an HVAC technician will not service the outdoor unit in the rain if the weather is bad enough. Especially in cases where the unit is on the roof. Always check with the service company first.

Give us a call today if you need to schedule service or maintenance or if you have any questions and we would be more than happy to assist you. You can reach us at (818) 341-3406 or online. To learn more about other services we offer, please visit our homepage here.

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Air Conditioning Installation

Tired of your AC system conking out on you at the worst moments? Fortunately, we have been operating in the Los Angeles area for years and can install virtually any type of AC system in your home, office or commercial space. Selecting the proper residential and commercial air conditioning systems combined with proper HVAC installation will ensure optimum performance and efficiency.

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Heating Installation

We specialize in installation of new and replacement of existing furnaces of all major brands and models.  Let our heating specialists help you reduce your heating costs and choose the right furnace products. Our years of experience and many satisfied customers in Los Angeles and San Fernando Valley is your assurance that we can help you. All our furnace installations are covered by our warranty.  Call us today and we will provide you with a free estimate.

Air Conditioning Repair

At home or at your workplace, there's always the potential for sudden HVAC operating failure and the need for immediate HVAC repair. We'll put you back into the comfort zone ASAP. Our technicians are experienced, EPA certified, trained, background checked, drug tested, Workers' Compensation insured, uniformed, professional, and honest. They will diagnose your system and provide you with a written estimate for repairs.

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Heating Repair

Our furnace repair technicians are trained and equipped to handle a majority of required furnace repairs right on the spot. First of all, the service technician will evaluate your furnace, determine it's age, inform you if your unit is still under manufacturer's warranty and present you with a written estimate for repairs.

Air Quality

Whether you're at home or at work, your health and comfort can be affected by poor air quality. And, the air quality is affected by the air temperature, the humidity, the quality of ventilation and any contaminants or irritants like indoor pets, pollen, dust mites, cleaning products, lead, Formaldehyde and Asbestos, Poor Air Flow, mildew and mold. Poor air quality can cause more than slight discomfort - much more!

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Maintenance

As Benjamin Franklin said, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Same idea applies to your central heater and air conditioner maintenance.Think of it as an oil change for your auto, which improves your car's engine performance, maximizes your gas millage and minimized down time by avoiding unnecessary repairs.

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