Preventing HVAC Water Damage

Your Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system can cause extensive water damage if it’s not maintained correctly. Common causes of HVAC water damage include a clogged drain, frozen evaporator coils, and pipes that are not connected correctly.

So, it’s essential to care for your HVAC system at least once a year. That helps to prolong the life of your unit and prevent additional heating or cooling expenses. The good news is that HVAC maintenance tasks are pretty easy to do and do not involve hiring a professional most of the time.

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How to prevent HVAC water damage

Change the HVAC filter regularly. | How To Prevent HVAC Water Damage

• Changing the filter helps prevent the unit from overworking, which can cause freezing and then defrosting on the evaporator coils, leading to HVAC water damage.
• Change the filter at least once a month with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters. It would be best if you changed some air filters twice a year, others once a month, depending on their type and how often you use the HVAC system.
• Check the instructions manual first to know what type of filter you need.
• If the filters are inside the furnace or air handler, hire a contractor to change the filters.

Clean the condenser | How To Prevent HVAC Water Damage

• The condenser is the exterior portion of your air conditioner or heat pump. It requires proper airflow to work efficiently.
• You should remove any dirt or other debris accumulating on the condenser once a year (preferably at the beginning of spring).
• Also, make sure to keep plants away from the condenser and remove any cover from it to ensure proper airflow.
• Leave at least two feet of space between the unit and the bushes or shrubs in your yard.

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Maintain the condensation drain line | How To Prevent HVAC Water Damage

• When your AC unit runs, check the condensation line opening to make sure you see water flowing to the drain. The amount of water that flows depends on the humidity level in the house.
• Clean the AC drainage holes. Locate the drainage hole on the base of the cabinet (beneath the evaporator fins). Use a paper clip or wire to poke through the hole and clear it, thus ensuring the AC drainage is kept clear.
• Once or twice a year, flush out your drain line with an algaecide to prevent mold or algae from forming. Use a commercial solution or regular bleach.
• Make sure to properly connect and install the main drain line and emergency drain line.
• Check that the pipe is oriented correctly, as the weather might have knocked it out of alignment.

How to unclog the drain line | How To Prevent HVAC Water Damage

• Sometimes, the drain line gets clogged with algae, dirt, mineral deposits, and even mold or mildew, causing water to overflow into your home.
• Attach a wet/dry vacuum to the drain line (removing the paper filter first) and suck the clog out.
• Consider installing an overflow shut-off device on the drain line to automatically turn off the A/C unit if the drain line backs up.

Install a condensation pump | How To Prevent HVAC Water Damage

• Another tip on how to avoid HVAC water damage is to install a condensation pump.
• That helps excess water flow into the proper disposal drain.
• Additionally, install a safety float switch to automatically shut down the power to the AC unit whenever condensation builds up, and there is a risk of water overflow.

Maintain the overflow drain pan | How To Prevent HVAC Water Damage

• The drain pan collects any water that has overflowed due to a clogged drain line.
• Over time, drain pans made of metal or plastic may get damaged, resulting in leaks and water damage.
• If you notice leaks near the drain pan, carefully inspect it for damage using a flashlight.
• Consider patching up small holes or cracks using epoxy glue or replacing the pan entirely.
• Regularly clean the drain pan. Rinse the pan and clean it with a bleach-water mixture to clear out any dirt or mold growth.

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Have your HVAC system inspected professionally | How To Prevent HVAC Water Damage

• HVAC inspection and maintenance can be difficult for homeowners, so hiring a professional is a good idea.
• Besides the tasks already mentioned, they can examine and fix problems related to HVAC components.
• Those include the ductwork, furnace flames, grills and registers, AC compressors, the thermostat, and more.

HVAC water damage? PuroClean can help!

Knowing how to prevent AC from leaking is sometimes not enough to prevent your unit from causing water damage. When leaks occur, the moisture promotes mold growth that can contaminate the air in your home. Check out how to prevent mold in HVAC systems. For HVAC water damage restoration and mold removal, contact PuroClean today.

Why Choose PuroClean of Lansdale for Your HVAC Water Damage and Mold Remediation Needs in Lansdale? 

When faced with water damage and potential mold growth, choosing the right restoration company is crucial. Here’s why Puroclean of Lansdale stands out as your trusted partner in the Montgomery County, including Lansdale, Skippack, Norristown, and  Ardmore: 

• Local Expertise: We are a locally owned and operated company with extensive experience serving MontgomeryCounty  and surrounding areas. We understand the unique challenges associated with water damage in our region, from seasonal weather patterns to specific building materials commonly used in our communities.

• Fast Response & 24/7 Availability: Water damage emergencies don’t wait for convenient hours. We offer 24/7 emergency response to minimize further damage and get the restoration process started swiftly. Our prompt response time ensures your property suffers less and recovers faster. 

• Highly Trained & Certified Technicians: Our team comprises certified and highly trained water damage restoration technicians. They possess the necessary skills and knowledge to assess the situation effectively, develop a customized remediation plan, and execute the job efficiently and safely. 

• Advanced Equipment & Technology: We invest in cutting-edge technology and equipment to ensure a thorough and efficient remediation process. This includes advanced drying equipment, industrial-grade dehumidifiers, and state-of-the-art mold detection tools. 

• Insurance Navigation & Hassle-Free Claims: We understand the complexities of insurance claims. Our team will work directly with your insurance company to streamline the claims process and ensure you receive the maximum coverage for your restoration needs. 

• Open Communication & Transparency: We believe in clear communication throughout the remediation process. Our team will keep you informed of every step, answer your questions promptly, and address any concerns you may have. 

• Commitment to Customer Satisfaction: Your satisfaction is our top priority. We are dedicated to exceeding your expectations by providing exceptional service, high-quality workmanship, and a commitment to restoring your property to its pre-damage condition. 

Protect Your Investment & Restore Your Peace of Mind 

Don’t let water damage and potential mold growth overwhelm you. Contact PuroClean of Lansdale today at (267) 834-5900 for a free consultation. We’ll be there to guide you through the restoration process and ensure your property is restored quickly, safely, and efficiently. 

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