In Tarpon Springs, Fl, heavy rainfall quickly leads to flooded streets, shops, and homes. The fast-rising water can wreak havoc on outside HVAC units, requiring fast and extensive repair. You don’t have to deal with water damage in your residential or commercial HVAC unit. Here’s how you can protect your HVAC from Flooding in Tarpon Springs with our HVAC installation.
Why is Tarpon Springs Flooding?
Heavy rainfall overwhelms the existing drainage systems in Tarpon Springs, leading to water backing up in the streets, particularly around the sponge docks. The seawall that’s supposed to protect the area from rising waters is overtopped by the rising water, allowing floodwaters to pour into residential and commercial areas.
What is Tarpon Springs Doing About the Flooding?
The city of Tarpon Springs has proposed the installation of an underground “vault” to collect floodwater through a network of pipes, which a water pump station will then expel. There are also plans to rebuild and improve the existing seawalls to provide better protection against surging waters.
However, implementing these flood mitigation strategies is expected to take $4.8 million. Not only would this be a substantial hit to the budget, but it would also take from 6 – 8 months to complete and be disruptive to the tourist season, which is a major source of revenue for local businesses and the city.
Therefore, work hasn’t started yet, and it’s unclear when the problem will be solved. In the meantime, it’s up to you to protect your HVAC from flooding.
Protect Your HVAC from Flooding in Tarpon Springs with Millian Aire’s Expert Solutions
While some HVAC components like steel or copper can withstand water to some extent, electrical components in these systems are at risk, as they can easily short out when submerged. Here are a few ways Millian Aire may suggest to protect your HVAC from flooding:
Elevate Your System
The most effective way to safeguard your HVAC from flooding is by elevating it above the flood elevation. In many parts of Florida, it’s common to see HVAC systems installed at heights of 18 feet or more.
Moving your system to a higher position demands rerouting electrical wiring and ductwork to comply with safety regulations. Depending on your preferences and property, the unit can be elevated into an attic, onto a roof, or onto an elevated structure built for this purpose.
Construct Protective Barriers
Building a protective wall around your HVAC unit may be effective in some cases, and is typically a lot more affordable than elevating the unit.
This wall should be designed to withstand several feet of water for several hours and include an access point for maintenance. Depending on the layout of your property and HVAC unit, the wall can be used to divert water away from the unit or keep it out entirely if the entire property floods.
Signs Your AC May Need Repair After a Flood
If your HVAC has already been hit by Tarpon Springs floods it’s crucial to assess it carefully, as even minimal exposure to water can lead to significant issues. Here are some signs that your AC may need repair after being affected by a flood:
- Failure to Start: The most obvious sign of flood damage is an AC unit that won’t start, likely due to electrical issues, such as shorted wires or damaged circuits, which are common when systems are submerged or exposed to water.
- Unusual Noises: Gurgling, banging, or hissing, could stem from displaced parts or debris within the system and indicate that water has interfered with internal components.
- Poor Performance: If the AC starts but isn’t cooling well or seems to be working harder than usual to maintain the desired temperature, it may be a problem with the compressor, refrigerant levels, or internal controls which could have been compromised by water.
- Unpleasant Odors: A musty or moldy smell coming from your AC unit or through your vents may indicate moisture accumulation in the system. It could indicate growth of mold or mildew within the ductwork or the unit itself.
- Visible Corrosion or Rust: Check for signs of rust or corrosion on the external and internal components of the unit. Floodwater can accelerate corrosion, particularly in those parts not designed for direct water exposure.
- Leakage: Besides the usual condensation line, any additional leakage around the AC unit could be a sign of flood damage due to compromised seals or damage to the drain pans.
- Tripped Circuit Breaker: If the AC causes the circuit breaker to trip repeatedly, it could be a result of electrical issues caused by flooding.
The Importance of Prompt HVAC Repair After a Flood
It’s critical to address any water damage to your HVAC system as quickly as possible. Water can cause progressive damage to HVAC components. Quick action is necessary to stop corrosion, prevent mold growth, and avoid electrical malfunctions that can worsen over time or create risks of electrical shorts and fire hazards.
The sooner flood damage is assessed and repaired, the less extensive — and expensive — those repairs are likely to be. Delaying can lead to more complex issues and higher repair or replacement costs.
Next Steps After HVAC Flood Damage
If you notice any of these signs turn off the unit and contact a professional HVAC service provider like Millian Aire. An experienced technician will be able to safely assess the damage and perform necessary repairs or advise if a replacement is a more cost-effective solution.
Remember, handling flood-damaged electrical appliances can be hazardous, so it’s best to rely on professionals for a thorough evaluation and repair.
Contact Millian Aire for Expert AC Installation and Flood Risk Assessment
Protecting your HVAC system from flood damage is crucial in Tarpon Springs. Don’t wait for the city to fix the problem–be proactive about protecting your HVAC. Whether you’re considering installing a new air conditioning system in Tarpon Springs out of the flood zone or need to assess and modify your current setup for better flood resistance, Millian Aire is here to help.
Our experienced technicians at Millian Aire can guide you through selecting the optimal location for your unit, ensuring it remains dry and undamaged.
Still worried about what you’ll do if your HVAC is damaged by rising water? By joining Millian Aire’s maintenance plan, you not only ensure regular upkeep and optimal performance of your HVAC system but also gain priority service in the aftermath of a flood.
Members of our maintenance plan are first in line for emergency repairs or replacements, giving you peace of mind that you won’t have to endure long waits or delays when you need service the most.
Don’t wait for the flood—contact Millian Aire today so we can help you safeguard your HVAC against the elements with expert installation and flood risk management solutions.
