Dallas – During Spring, the weather can create unwanted air conditions that make hail. Hail can result in broken windows, damaged roofs, and dented vehicles. It can also cause harm to people or pets, so be sure to stay indoors and practice recommended thunderstorm & hail safety tips and tornado precautions to remain safe. Weather patterns during turbulent conditions, like severe thunderstorms, can wreak havoc on businesses and homes. With parts of North Texas under an enhanced risk of severe weather Thursday night, which includes thunderstorms with hail and tornadoes, it’s essential to understand how hail can damage the air conditioning system.
Types of Hail Damages to the Air Conditioning System
Some of the most common damages to the air conditioning system after a hailstorm are as follows:
Air Conditioner Coil Hail Damage
Hail can damage the air conditioner’s outdoor coil, which releases heat from the refrigerant. If the coil is damaged, it can result in the refrigerant leaking, causing the AC system to malfunction or stop working entirely.
Air Conditioner Bent Fins
Hailstones can also bend the fins of the AC unit’s outdoor coil, which restricts airflow. In a study performed to test the Hail Effects on Air-Conditioner Performance for the ASME IMECE by the University of Texas at Arlington and HAAG Engineering, they determined that fin damage to Air Conditioning systems significantly reduced the AC’s efficiency. In extreme cases, denting the fins caused a reduction in efficiency by 34%.
Air Conditioner Fan Damage
The hailstones can also damage the outdoor fan blades, causing the air conditioner to stop working or run inefficiently. Fan damage can cause the systems to wobble, which, if not addressed, can cause extensive damage over time. If a fan blade is severely bent or cracked, it could cause the AC system to shut down entirely.
Air Conditioner Housing Damage
Hail can also dent or damage the housing of the air conditioner, which can cause water to enter the system during rainfall and cause further damage. If the outdoor HVAC system has no hail guard, the chance of damage is more significant than if there is a hail guard.
Observe Hailstorm Damage to Air Conditioner
Air conditioner hail damage can be observed in many ways. We’d recommend contacting a professional HVAC technician if the ac system stops working, if the HVAC system isn’t reaching the desired temperature, if the unit starts making noises, or if you notice the smell of burning while the system is operating.
What to do after a Hailstorm?
After a hailstorm, we recommend following steps to ensure your ac system works under proper conditions.
Protect your property
First, visually inspect the home and your ac unit and pay attention to any noticeable damage. If your home or ac unit is damaged, contact your insurance provider to report damage, and ask about your coverage. Take pictures and video of the damage and make any temporary repairs to prevent more damage. The Texas Department of Insurance has many resources available to you after storms. Be sure to visit their website for more assistance.
Contact your HVAC System Manufacturer
While the damage caused by hail isn’t normally covered under a manufacturer’s warranty, we’d recommend contacting the manufacturer anyway. Speaking with the manufacturer can provide information about your HVAC system. The manufacturer can also provide information about your warranty, if there is any coverage, etc. In most cases, manufacturers can recommend local HVAC dealers in your area that can assist you with repairs or replacement.
Freedom Heating & Air HVAC Hail Damage Inspection
After contacting your Insurance Provider and the HVAC Manufacturer, consider scheduling an appointment with your local HVAC company. We’d recommend having a licensed and trained professional like Freedom Heating & Air perform an inspection to determine the extent of any damage. In general, hail damage to an air conditioner can lead to decreased efficiency, reduced performance, and the need for repairs or replacement. Scheduling an appointment with a licensed tech could help save you from increased cooling costs. Contact our office to schedule your appointment.
