Mechanical Technologies

Our AC repair technicians often get asked by our customers whether the outdoor unit of their home comfort systems is safe from the elements. With spring fast approaching comes the possibility of rainfall, and we all know that water and electronics don’t mix most of the time. Read on as we discuss this matter further.

How Spring Rains Can Affect Your AC

The excess humidity and moisture brought by spring rains can significantly impact air conditioning efficiency and performance. With increased amounts of moisture in the air, the unit may be subjected to unnecessary strain, resulting in an increase in energy consumption. This, in turn, puts an additional burden on your finances well into the summer months.

• Increase in Humidity. Excess humidity levels can reduce the cooling system’s efficiency and cycle-run rate. This means that it will run for longer periods of time than usual just to keep the indoors cool, which could raise energy usage and costs.
• Clogged Filters. The arrival of spring also means excess dust and pollen buildup in the air, which usually ends up in your AC system’s filters. Over time, the filters can get too clogged, blocking airflow through the unit. This can lower the AC’s efficiency levels because of the unnecessary strain.
• Electrical Damage and Short Circuit. As already mentioned above, water and electronics don’t mix, and with excess humidity, it’s possible that the electrical components of your AC may become damaged. These may range from the buildup of rust on metal components like fan motors, blower wheels, and fan blades, to more costly issues like faulty wiring that causes residential electrical shortages.

Ways to Minimize the Impact of Spring Rains on HVAC

Fortunately, there are ways you can keep your AC system in good condition despite outdoor conditions that are common in spring:

• Regular HVAC Maintenance. Periodic AC maintenance carried out by a professional air conditioner service technician can help identify problems before they turn into more costly repairs.
• Gutter Maintenance. Don’t forget to keep your gutters in good condition. With this, you won’t have to worry about water runoff flowing out of the gutters and finding its way into the fan blades or blower wheels of the outdoor unit.
• Proper Insulation. Installing efficient insulation in areas around your home, along with an effective vapor barrier, can help reduce moisture build-up and enable better control of the temperature inside the house.

To avoid expensive repairs or replacements owing to an inefficient system caused by excess humidity, it is essential to prioritize AC maintenance. Mechanical Technologies in El Paso, TX, is available when you need assistance for all your HVAC needs, from cooling repairs to air duct cleaning. Call us today at (915) 544-1550, or fill out our online form to get a free estimate!