Hurricane season has just started, and weather forecasters have already raised the number of predicted named storms for 2021. Between heavy rainfall and storm surges, you need to know how to recover your HVAC system after a flood.

A Florida home’s HVAC system is one of the most important features when it comes to its value and your family’s quality of life.

What Happens If My AC Unit Gets Flooded?

Florida homeowners know that a hurricane can cause significant damage and one source of HVAC system damage is flooding. Hurricane-force winds can bring storm surges. Heavy rainfall results in rising waters in streets, yards, and even in your home.

Water infiltration short-circuits your AC electrical system, often resulting in the need for replacement. During power outages, humidity helps breed mold inside your ductwork. This buildup of spores can cause significant damage throughout your entire home.

So, how you recover your HVAC system after a flood can seriously impact further remediation efforts.

How Do You Recover From Flood Damage?

Because of the risk of electrocution, a licensed service tech should inspect your HVAC system after any water infiltration. They can safely assess whether the equipment is salvageable or needs replacement.

Safety Concerns During Storm Remediation

It’s critical to observe safety precautions when doing post-storm cleanup. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that you isolate your HVAC unit with plastic sheeting and wear an N95 mask to prevent airborne contaminants from affecting anyone working inside the home.

Learning How To Recover Your HVAC System After a Flood

The CDC also outlines steps for sanitizing your HVAC system after a flood.

1. Remove insulation and filters that were exposed to water. Replace any insulation that contacted flood water.

2. Clean all surfaces of the unit with a vacuum cleaner fitted with a HEPA filter.

3. Sanitize all surfaces of your HVAC unit with a solution of one cup bleach to one cup water, followed by a fresh water rinse.

4. Discard any parts of the system you can't sanitize. For example, if your system uses ductboard instead of metal duct, it must be replaced.

5. Have a professional service the air handling unit fan by cleaning, disinfecting, and testing it.

Returning to Operation

Run the system continuously at a comfortable temperature for 48 to 72 hours before moving back into your home.

Afterward, check your AC filter weekly. You may need to replace frequently for a few weeks.

Helping You Recover Your HVAC System After a Flood

Natural disasters are traumatic experiences, but you don’t have to go it alone. You'll find numerous agencies ready to help you, your family, and your home, recover.

We’re also standing by to help after a flood. We know storm recovery is complicated and stressful. Make an appointment today and let the pros at One Hour Air take care of your air quality, so you can face the future with one less thing to worry about.