Water damage is never a fun experience to deal with. Often taking weeks or even months to notice, it’s usually too late to address when the real water damage has been done. And one of the most overlooked sources is your home’s air conditioning unit.
Continue reading to learn some of the most common causes of water damage from your air conditioner, how to prevent this water damage to your home, and whether your insurance will cover the repairs.
Possible Causes of A/C-related Water Damage
The most common causes of water damage that stem from air conditioners include:
- Clogged air filter
- Clogged/disconnected drain
- Condensation buildup within ductwork
- Cracked drain pan
- Dirty condensate pump
- Dirty evaporator coil
- Low refrigerant
How to Prevent Water Damage from Air Conditioners
There are a number of preventative measures to take to avoid water damage from A/C units:
- The first thing to do is stop the leak by turning off the air conditioner.
- Check the unit for obvious problems.
- If you are handy, you may be able to address small repairs like a clogged condensation line.
- If the repair seems difficult or you can’t trace the origin, give ServiceMaster TEAM,
- Keep the air conditioner turned off until the leak is fixed. Meanwhile, mop up any standing water and assess the extent of damages.
- Start the water remediation process by removing water from carpets and flooring with a wet vac.
- Set up fans and open windows to create cross-currents of fresh air throughout the affected area. A dehumidifier also accelerates the drying process.
- Inspect surfaces and materials for mildew and mold growth. Be aware of signs of mold hiding in the walls.
- Assess the damage.
If you face any of the following situations, it is probably time to call in the professionals at ServiceMaster TEAM to resolve the issues:
- Structural damage from air conditioner condensation leaks in ceilings
- Extensive framing and drywall tear-out and replacement
- Badly soaked carpets, hardwood floors, or subflooring
- Mold growth that’s spread inside your home’s structure, including insulation and walls
Preventative Maintenance against A/C Damage
- Check the condensation line for proper moisture flow
- Clean the condensation line every 3 to 6 months
- Change your A/C filter every three months (or more frequently)
- Check A/C refrigerant levels regularly
- Install a drain pan overflow or a secondary drain line
- Invest in regular inspections and preventative maintenance
Does Insurance Cover A/C Water Damage?
The truth is that your homeowner’s insurance may or may not cover the water damage from your air conditioner. That’s why it is important to check your policy today and discuss the details with your insurance agent.
In most cases, you are most likely covered for water damage due to air conditioner problems. However, there are exceptions:
- Lack of routine maintenance
- Old equipment
- Expired warranty
- A/C unit not sized properly for the home
- Unlicensed/faulty installation
- Mold damage
Stay Cool with ServiceMaster TEAM
At ServiceMaster TEAM, we want each and every one of our customers to stay cool and dry this summer. Our experienced team of technicians takes care of everything – from soaked carpets to soggy drywall, we are at your service 24/7/365. Give us a call today to eliminate water damage from your A/C and enjoy the peace of mind that you deserve!
