Storm-Resistant Exterior Air Conditioning Parts

After a freezing winter, Virginia is now approaching spring and summer weather patterns. The exterior of your outdoor locations, the compressor for your air conditioner, and any wall and window units need to be weatherproofed.

These parts could be more delicate. If you are not careful, Virginia's occasionally severe weather could damage such parts. Those who have owned a property in Virginia for some time will be aware of what to do, but those who have never lived in the area or are moving out on their own for the first time could need further help.

Okay, if it rains.

To begin with, the rain itself is not the issue. Any exterior air conditioning system component should be built to resist typical weather conditions. If it was built and installed correctly, a wall air conditioner should be able to withstand situations when the exterior is exposed to rain, for instance.

You can purchase coverings for outdoor elements if you're particularly worried about a heavy storm or don't want to deal with cleanup (because you know the rain will bring fallen leaves). These might include window treatments, wall units, or even hoods that fit over compressors.

Flooding is a particular issue

Of course, the pieces could be harmed if a cyclone strikes or it rains so heavily that the area floods. Hurricane-related flooding is nothing new to Virginia; examples include the floods caused by Hurricanes Agnes and Gaston in 1972 and 2004, respectively. It is also susceptible to floods brought on by storm debris, such as the one brought on by Hurricane Camille in 1969.

Connections and minute gaps in casings are entry points for floodwaters. Flood waters that sit still for a while, especially on older equipment, can lead to corrosion.

Outside compressors may benefit from secure covers. However, it may only be enough to stop flooding if the surface is wholly taped without any holes. You should only turn on your air conditioner once the water has receded and the compressor has been inspected and cleared.

Usually, window and wall units are a little higher. Some wall units are higher up, while others are adjacent to windows. The same care must be taken with compressors as with significant flooding. Little water that doesn't actually reach the unit but seeps in through cracks nearby could harm the wall and wiring.

Again, you might purchase covers and make an effort to seal them completely. For your safety, you should still have the item inspected. Refrain from tampering with the electricity or water systems.

Horizontal Winds May Exist

The wind is another problem since it can make rain fall horizontally during severe storms. High gusts may also force material into the units' sides, blocking filters. Unoccupied units can be covered with soft covers, essentially the same as the ones used to cover units facing the rain.

Those coverings will only be used if you use the air conditioner inside your house. In some circumstances, the optimal barrier is far enough away from the unit to prevent wind from reaching it. Using well-rooted shrubs or a short, robust fence is a further option.

Hail is an issue

Large hail is common in Virginia. In truth, a shower the size of a tennis ball was produced by a storm in central Virginia in May 2017. One can buy metal coverings for outdoor compressors. It would help if you enquired about their options and the amount of hail the covers can resist from the people who install air conditioners.

Contact an air conditioning firm like HVAC Installation and Repair Guide if you're new to the area or live alone. Decide on a time for an evaluation, and learn which component protection kinds are ideal for you.

Large hail is common in Virginia. In truth, a shower the size of a tennis ball was produced by a storm in central Virginia in May 2017. One can buy metal coverings for outdoor compressors. It would help if you enquired about their options and the amount of hail the covers can resist from the people who install air conditioners.

Contact an air conditioning firm like HVAC Installation and Repair Guide if you're new to the area or live alone. Decide on a time for an evaluation, and learn which component protection kinds are ideal for you.