Lawn Care Hints for Your AC Compressor

Summer Rains May Mean Your Lawnmower is Working Overtime

Heat and humidity aren’t the only things to force your air conditioning unit to operate harder. Summer rains cause your grass and other vegetation to grow faster, which means you are mowing your lawn more often. The grass clippings may seem small, except they can cause damage to your AC compressor and other components in your outside unit. Protect your outdoor unit and AC compressor by taking preventative steps before tropical storms hit. If you notice something is wrong with your air conditioning system after harsh wind and rain, contact AC Southeast®. We will help you find a NATE-certified technician in your area so you can schedule an HVAC repair quickly.

Safeguard Against Heavy Winds

Often you hear about heavy winds knocking trees over and damaging homes. What you don’t typically hear is how those same winds can impact your AC compressor. Heavy wind throws debris like leaves, branches, twigs, and other small objects on top of and into your outdoor unit. This debris is blown with such force it damages the fins, causes airflow restrictions, and compromises the integrity of your AC compressor. Avoid unnecessary wind damage by covering your exterior unit with a tarp to block debris from entering. Do not use plastic wrap, because any moisture blown around will get trapped and cause the AC compressor, condenser, and other components to corrode. Once the wind has passed, remove the cover before turning the unit on. Another way to protect your outdoor unit against wind damage is by removing unsecured objects from your yard. These items can easily be thrown against your outdoor unit and cause damage to the AC compressor inside. Typical objects with potential to damage your system include:

Patio furniture
Tools
Lawn decorations and
Outdoor toys such as bikes, skateboards, and wagons.

Prevent Moisture Inside Your Outdoor Unit

In any storm, excess moisture accumulates in areas costly to clean or replace. If you don’t use a tarp to protect your exterior unit, condensation can easily form inside the unit and damage the AC compressor and other components. Don’t, however, leave the tarp on too long. The AC compressor and condenser are equipped to eliminate moisture removed from your indoor air. They can’t, however, handle the extra moisture from outside. Excess moisture will cause your components to corrode and force your air conditioner to work harder to achieve ideal temperatures inside your house. The harder the unit works, the more strain is put on your AC compressor. If the AC compressor goes out, it is extremely expensive to replace. If you suspect water is inside your exterior unit, call AC Southeast® to schedule an HVAC repair call with a licensed heating and cooling expert.

Remove Excess Debris ASAP

If you know a storm is coming, check your outdoor unit and any vegetation around it. If you notice shrubs or bushes growing too close to the component, trim them back. The recommended distance for anything around your unit is at least 2 feet away. The same applies to trees. If you notice low hanging branches or limbs too close to the exterior unit, remove them or trim them back. In the event a storm hits and you weren’t able to prepare beforehand, inspect your unit afterward. Remove any branches, limbs, twigs, leaves, or other debris accumulated around your outdoor equipment. If you notice there is damage, contact AC Southeast®. We will help you find someone who can inspect your outdoor unit and ensure the AC compressor is functioning correctly.

Locate a Local HVAC Contractor for AC Compressor Care

You cannot control Mother Nature. You can only control how you react to her. Protect your AC compressor and other components in your outdoor unit by safeguarding against high winds, moisture, and debris. Contact AC Southeast® if you notice something is wrong with your AC compressor. We will give you options for local HVAC specialists in your area.