Storm clean up graphic showing air conditioner and debris to be cleaned in yard after storm.

Storm Clean Up and HVAC Inspection After a Flood in Southeast Texas

The aftermath of Hurricane Harvey continues to impact Southeast Texas, including the Greater Houston area and Tomball. The heavy rainfall—over 50 inches in some areas—caused widespread flooding, impassable streets, and a local state of emergency declared by the mayor of Houston. While floodwaters will eventually recede, the storm cleanup process will require attention to both the structural damage to your home and the well-being of your HVAC system.

In the wake of these storms, your primary concern should always be ensuring the safety of you and your family. However, once the immediate crisis is over, it’s crucial to check on your home’s air conditioning system. Even though it’s summer in southeast Texas, maintaining safe indoor temperatures is vital to avoiding heat illness.

If your home experienced water damage or if water infiltrated your yard, your HVAC system may have been affected. Even outdoor compressor units, which are designed to withstand rain, can be impacted by floodwaters or saturation in the surrounding soil. Here’s how to ensure your system is safe and working properly during storm cleanup:

Outdoor Compressor Check

Central air conditioning systems rely on outdoor compressor units, which are typically built to handle rain, but floodwaters present a unique challenge. If debris, such as fallen tree branches, has damaged the compressor housing, water could enter the unit, leading to potential system failure.

Floodwaters and humidity can also corrode key components over time. Plus, debris from the storm could block or clog the unit, preventing it from operating effectively. The saturated soil caused by flooding could also cause the platform holding your compressor to shift, requiring an inspection to ensure stability and proper functioning.

Indoor Furnace Check

If floodwaters reached your home, it’s essential to have your indoor furnace inspected, especially if water came into direct contact with the unit. Furnaces are often placed on small platforms, which may provide some protection if the water level was minor. However, if the water reached the base of your furnace, it needs to be professionally assessed.

Even if both the compressor and furnace appear to be in good condition, the excess moisture in the air can cause long-term issues. Corrosion can build up gradually, often going unnoticed for months. Plan for more frequent inspections of your air and heating systems over the next year or two to ensure they continue to function well.

Outdoor and Indoor Insulation

If your home was heavily exposed to the storm—such as experiencing roof leaks, flooding around the foundation, or internal water damage—the insulation around your air conditioning system may need to be replaced. This includes insulation around ducts, evaporator coils, and other parts of the system. Proper insulation is essential for keeping your HVAC system efficient, and wet insulation will degrade quickly.

Indoor Components: Mold and Mildew Risks

Indoor AC parts are susceptible to moisture damage, and flooding can make these issues much worse. While some indoor components might have a higher tolerance to moisture than outdoor units, they still require attention. Moisture can promote mold and mildew growth, which will impact air quality and your system’s performance.

If your indoor unit has been exposed to floodwater, it may need to be cleaned and disinfected. While some may attempt to clean these parts themselves, it’s recommended to have a professional handle the job. Improper cleaning could damage sensitive components, and harsh chemicals like bleach can produce toxic fumes in poorly ventilated areas.

Ductwork and Vents: Cleaning for Mold Prevention

Flooding increases the risk of mold growth, particularly within your HVAC system’s ductwork. While humidity is a common issue in southeast Texas, the excessive moisture from flooding can exacerbate mold development. It’s critical to have your ducts cleaned thoroughly to remove any mold spores or debris that might have collected inside.

Call Reid’s AC & Heat for Post-Storm HVAC Inspections

At Reid’s AC & Heat, we understand the challenges posed by storm damage and the importance of getting your HVAC system back to full operation. If your home has been affected by flooding, we offer comprehensive inspections and repairs. Inspections and ac repair for both indoor and outdoor components of your air conditioning and heating systems. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and ensure your HVAC system is ready for the heat ahead.