Seven Ways an HVAC Unit Can Cause Water Damage

 Houston gets very hot during the month of August. In fact, the hottest day on record in Houston occurred on August 27, 2011, when the thermometer hit 109 degrees Fahrenheit. When the temperatures reach into the triple digits, HVAC systems work overtime to keep a home or business cool and comfortable. Modern units are very efficient and quiet. Homeowners can forget the part of the system tucked away in the attic or in a closet until a problem arises.

An HVAC system acts as a dehumidifier, removing moisture from the air. A unit can produce anywhere from five to twenty or more gallons of water per day. Imagine the water damage a leak in the HVAC drain system could cause over several days or weeks. During a hot August summer, the HVAC unit would overflow a 55-gallon drum every three days.   

Common Causes of AC Water Leakage

The following problems can cause water leaks in a central AC system:

1. Clogged drain line

A clogged condensate drain pipe can be the culprit causing the AC system drain pan to overflow.  Being a frequent cause of water leakage from a central AC system, this problem has prompted many service calls to water damage restoration professionals in the Houston area.

2. Disconnected drain line

The AC drain pipe is not under pressure, but the fittings still need to be cleaned and glued as if the system were pressurized. Improperly installed drain pipe fittings may, over time, become loose, causing the drain pipe to disconnect from the AC unit, allowing the condensate water to drain through the ceiling or onto the floor. The source of the leak may depend on whether the AC system is in the attic or inside the house.

3. Condensate pump problems

A malfunctioning or dirty condensate pump can contribute to water leakage from the AC system, which can cause flooding in the basement or attic. Due to the increased presence of water, mold and mildew can grow inside the unit, causing it to clog.

4. No air vent and p-trap in the drain line to prevent water backup

More modern HVAC units have a drain line with a p-trap and an air vent to prevent water backup. Some units have a second line to handle the moisture on those days when a system works very hard to keep a residence or business cool.

5. Low refrigerant

Low refrigerant can cause an evaporator coil to freeze, which creates its own set of water leakage problems. The moisture can damage flooring, collapse a ceiling, and increase the likelihood of mold growth.

6. Cracked condensate drain pan

Older metal drain pans may rust and leak water onto the floor or in the ceiling, depending on the location of the unit. A metal pan can develop rust leaks in as little as four or five years.

7. Clogged filter

A filter clogged with dirt, dust, and hair restricts airflow to the air handler. The additional stress on the unit reduces the ability of the unit to cool the home resulting in longer run time and the generation of more moisture. Changing the filter every month will increase efficiency and reduce the production of moisture.

Tips to Prevent Water Damage from HVAC Leakage

Follow these tips to reduce the likelihood of water leakage issues:

1. Install a secondary drain line to supplement the main drain line. Equip each drain line with a p-trap and air vent to handle the moisture, especially if the air handler is in the attic.
2. Have an HVAC professional install a drain pan overflow shutoff switch, equipped with a float.
3. Capture drain pan overflow by putting a safety pan under the AC unit.
4. Practice adequate filter maintenance either by cleaning or changing the filter on a prescribed schedule.
5. Properly insulate ductwork.
6. Monitor AC refrigerant levels.
7. Schedule annual HVAC maintenance. The maximized performance reduces the power bill, increases the cooling ability, extends the life of the unit, and minimizes furnace and AC repairs.

HVAC leaks are one of the leading causes of water damage in a home or business. When water damage from an HVAC system does occur, enlist the services of Cobalt Restoration, whose skilled and experienced technicians understand the challenges an HVAC leak can present. For more information about water damage restoration in the Houston area, visit the Cobalt Restoration website at cobaltrestoration.com. Contact the office by phone at (713) 775-5203.

Water Damage Restoration Company Shares Tips for Water Damage Restoration

When a water damage incident occurs in a home or business, the first step is to find a storm, flood, or water damage restoration specialist that can be trusted to restore the home or business to normal as soon as possible.

Water Damage Scenario

A couple had finally been able to enjoy a weeklong retreat. The vacation was refreshing, and when the couple returned home, they were ready to tackle whatever awaited at work on Monday. However, as they pulled into their driveway, they realized there was a huge problem. Water was streaming out from under the garage door.

The garage was flooded, and water covered the kitchen floor. The den and hallway carpets were soaked. The couple could hear the water shooting from a burst supply line to the toilet. They needed a water damage specialist quickly.

Asking the right questions is often the best first step in taking care of a water damage incident, especially one as extensive as the event described in the scenario above. Here are some simple tips to help select a water damage specialist. Waiting until a disaster has struck may be too late to find the water damage restoration company that offers a detailed action plan, reliable service, and superior results.

The following seven tips help to identify and select a water damage restoration service that can be trusted to deliver the best results.

1. The Team Responds Swiftly When Disaster Hits

Time compounds and complicates water damage. Finding a water remediation service that can arrive as quickly as possible is crucial. Minutes mean more money when there is a delay in addressing the damage. Ask these questions when searching for help:

• Does the company offer 24/7 emergency response?
• How fast can the team start the cleanup and repair process?
• Does the company offer peace-of-mind emergency planning services for home and business owners who want fast help whenever needed?

2. Technicians Are Bonded, Insured, Licensed, and Certified

When researching companies to hire, look for a water damage restoration company that is properly licensed and insured in the state. Ask the following questions:

• How long has this company been in business?
• What level of training and experience does the team of restoration specialists have?
• Are the team members certified through a reputable and thorough certification program?
• Do the technicians undergo continuing education?

3. The Service Has Reputable Local References

To avoid being taken advantage of after a major weather-related disaster, seek out a trustworthy water damage restoration company that has great references from local customers. A locally owned and operated company will be more understanding of local needs.

4. A Detailed Plan for Damage Repair Is Presented to the Property Owner

A trustworthy water damage restoration company provides a complete, accurate assessment of the property damage, the needed repairs, and a reliable estimate of costs to equip property owners to make good decisions about how to move forward.

5. The Company Navigates the Insurance Claims Process With the Customer

Filing a successful insurance claim does not have to be frustrating. Identify a water damage restoration company that is experienced and responsive in helping document damages and file accurate, timely claims.

6. The Team Uses Cutting-Edge Equipment and Techniques

A water-damaged home will need water extraction, drying, and dehumidification to prevent mold issues in the future. State-of-the-art equipment and techniques accelerate the restoration process, help prevent future mold growth, and ensure property such as documents, photographs, letters, artwork, and other important personal items are properly restored.

7. The Customer, the Home, and Its Contents Are Treated With Respect

A water disaster is stressful and frustrating, but a reliable, compassionate restoration team can help return life to normal. Proper restoration techniques, gentle handling, accurate documentation, and secure storage of personal property are a part of the respect that the team of caring professionals at Cobalt Restoration demonstrates toward the customers they serve.

Conclusion

When looking for a water, fire, storm, or flood damage restoration company, look no further. Cobalt Restoration helps restore homes and businesses damaged by water, fire, and storm damage.  A phone call activates the rapid response team. Upon arrival, the crew takes immediate steps to reduce property damage due to water, flood, wind, hail, rain, sewage backflow, burst pipes, roof damage, and other emergencies. Cobalt Restoration is a full-service damage cleanup and restoration company. The highly trained team of technicians are bonded, insured, licensed, and IICRC Certified.

For more information about water and fire damage restoration, visit the Cobalt Restoration website at cobaltrestoration.com. Contact the office by phone at (713) 775-5203.