While your air conditioner was engineered to withstand all of the crazy weather in Tucson, occasionally severe weather can lead to an AC repair. For example, bad weather oftentimes corresponds with power surges. And since your AC is electronic, and power surges and electronics are not compatible, you’ll want to make an effort to protect your AC. It’s ideal to turn your system off using your thermostat and turn off the circuit breaker to offer maximum protection during stormy weather.
A lot of people worry about too much water getting on their air conditioner and decide to cover it with a tarp or cover. This does not help, and could essentially damage your AC if you don’t remember to remove the covering before running it again. Your AC was made to handle rain and snow, so hold onto your money and avoid a potential AC repair by not covering your unit. However, if you see that your unit is in standing water after a storm, you’ll want to call Ambient Air before you turn it back on.
Another danger to your AC throughout severe weather is falling (or flying) objects. This is a little harder to prevent, but keeping loose outdoor items secured can help reduce your risk. Once the storm passes, make sure to pick up any debris that may have accumulated around your unit. If debris does hit and damage your unit, Ambient Air can inspect it and perform an AC repair if it’s needed.
In addition to storms, summer is known for its scorching heat. Just like it was made to endure water, your AC was made to handle a lot of heat from the sun. But, the hotter the sun, the harder your AC has to run to cool your indoor space. You can help prevent some wear and tear by keeping your home’s temperature setting a little higher on these days. The closer your indoor temperature is to the outdoor temperature, the less strenuous the work is for your AC. Many people are still comfortable with their thermostats set to roughly 78 degrees Fahrenheit on really hot days. Remember that the older your AC is, the more it may struggle in hotter weather.
If you have any questions about the effects of severe weather on your air conditioner, or think you are in need of an AC repair, call Ambient Air. We can be contacted at 520-357-4912.