Uh Oh! Did My Lawnmower Throw a Rock at My AC Compressor?

Outdoor HVAC units containing AC Compressors can be easily damaged by storms, debris or the occasional rock thrown by landscaping equipment. Learn more about how to best landscape around and maximize airflow around this vital component on your Foley property.

4 Frequently asked questions about protecting your AC compressor in the Mobile area:

1. Should I cover my ac unit this summer? Although many advantages come with covering your AC unit during summer, most manufacturers don’t recommend it. While the cover can protect the AC compressor from damage, it can also create an environment for humidity to accumulate. Your knowledgeable HVAC service provider, such as Keith Air Conditioning, Inc., will be able to help you make a final decision on what’s best for your unit.
2. Is my HVAC unit storm-safe? Thunderstorms, lightning, hail and even the outskirts of a hurricane can be summer threats to your AC compressor. The first thing you can do to protect your AC unit when a severe storm is approaching is shut everything down, if possible. This will help reduce the risk of a blown-out circuit or fried compressor when the power returns. Also, be sure to check on your unit after the storm, when it’s safe to go outside, to ensure no debris has landed on it or is obstructing its airflow.
3. What kind of landscaping can I do to help protect my unit? There are a few general rules of thumb you can use to protect your AC unit. Be sure not stack anything (i.e., a garden hose) on your unit and keep the unit unrestricted so as not limit airflow.  Perform a routine check to make sure your outdoor condenser coils are clean. Finally, when you are mowing or weed whacking be extra careful as you move by your HVAC system. Flying grass clippings can easily get sucked into a unit while it’s running and clog it. When planting your shrubs, be careful not to block the access panels or the coil – a good rule of thumb is to keep 24 to 36 inches around the unit.
4. Should I protect my AC unit from my pets? Yes. Your AC compressor could be damaged by your pets, your neighbors’ pets as well as wild animals and even insects. In fact, animals can cause significant damage to outdoor air conditioning system components. Especially when temperatures are extreme, very hot or very cold, the enclosed space inside the cabinet of an outdoor unit can be a tempting shelter from the harsh environment. Be sure your AC unit is sealed to prevent the havoc these critters can wreak on your HVAC system from chewing on wiring, urinating on electronic components, as well as creating fire hazards by filling spaces with straw and bedding materials.

Keith Air is the go-to HVAC service provider in Mobile since 1964, and you can count on us to help you with tips to keep your AC compressor protected during the summer months. Our professional team of technicians will be happy to drop by when it’s convenient for you to help with any and all of your HVAC needs.

Contact Keith Air to schedule an appointment today.