For residents of Arizona, the official arrival of summer’s monsoon season on June 15 is a double-edged sword. Rain and wind can provide temporary relief from the dry heat. But the moisture and dust that go hand-in-hand with summer storms can also spell trouble for your home if you’re not prepared. Being proactive about potential problems can save you from costly AC repairs down the line.
Outside Condenser Unit
One of the biggest risks that monsoon weather poses to AC units is allowing dust, dirt, and plant debris to accumulate around the outdoor condenser unit. High winds can blow all sorts of yard waste and particles directly into the unit, clogging the condenser coil fins. Make sure the area around the condenser stays clear during storms by trimming back any branches or vegetation that could get blown into the unit. Installing a partial enclosure or awning over the condenser can block debris as well. Having your local HVAC professionals inspect your system is especially beneficial this time of the year.
Indoor Excessive Humidity
Inside, excessive monsoon moisture can cause problems, as well. If humid outdoor air infiltrates ducts or plenums with leaks or poor sealing, it creates condensation. Over time, this added moisture inside the ductwork can lead to mold and mildew growth that spreads unhealthy spores throughout your home. Duct leaks enable this outside air to continually feed moisture into the system. Checking for duct leaks and properly sealing any openings prevents moist air from infiltrating. And, installing a whole-home dehumidifier can control moisture levels while easing the burden on your AC unit.
Electrical Issues
In some cases, monsoon storms can even trigger electrical issues like short circuits or complete power outages. While an outage will temporarily shut your AC down, repeatedly turning a unit on and off as storms roll through can actually damage the compressor by causing abrupt changes in refrigerant pressure and flows. Investing in quality surge protectors for your entire home’s electrical supply provides a critical safeguard against lightning damage.
Call Bruce’s
Don’t let monsoon storms wreak havoc on your cooling system’s operation and efficiency. A fully functioning HVAC system is vital to your family’s comfort and well-being. With some basic preventative steps, you can ensure your AC unit can keep you comfortable all summer long. Call your locally owned professionals today at Bruce’s Air Conditioning & Heating at 480-968-5652. We’re your summer monsoon HVAC professionals available 24/7.
