Air Conditioner Safety Alert! Safely Check Your Split System or Ducted Air Conditioner After the Cyclone or Flood
After a cyclone or flooding, it’s important to carefully inspect your ducted air conditioner before turning it back on. Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure your unit is safe to use.
If you need further advice or a quote for a replacement system, contact Magic Air Conditioning on 📞 07 5528 9000.
1. Safety First: Turn Off the Power
- Before inspecting, switch off the power at the main switchboard and the unit’s circuit breaker.
- Do not touch any wet electrical parts to avoid shock hazards.
- If your home has had extensive flooding, wait until everything is completely dry before proceeding.
2. Check the Outdoor Unit (Condenser)
Since the outdoor unit is exposed to the elements, it’s important to inspect it carefully:
- Remove debris – Clear away leaves, dirt, and any obstructions around the unit.
- Look for visible water damage – If water reached above the base, allow the unit to dry completely.
- Check for loose or broken parts – If the fan blades or casing look damaged, do not turn it on.
What to do:
- If the unit is dry and undamaged, you can proceed to the next step.
- If water entered the unit or there’s visible damage, do not attempt to turn it on.
3. Inspect the Indoor Unit & Ductwork
Flooding and high humidity can cause moisture buildup inside your home’s air system. Check for:
- Water stains or leaks – Inspect ceilings, vents, and ducts for signs of water entry.
- Mold or musty smells – If the air smells damp or moldy, the ducts may need cleaning.
- Dirty or wet filters – Remove and clean filters with mild detergent and let them dry completely before reinstalling.
What to do:
- If the ducts or vents are damp, leave them to dry naturally or use fans to improve airflow.
- If filters are wet, let them dry in the sun before reinstalling.
4. Test the System Safely
Once everything is dry and looks intact, you can attempt to restart the system:
- Turn the power back on at the main switchboard.
Set the unit to ‘Fan Mode’ only (no cooling or heating) for a few hours. This will help dry out any residual moisture. - Monitor for unusual smells, noises, or weak airflow.
- If everything seems normal, gradually switch to cooling or heating mode.
5. Troubleshooting Issues
If you notice any of the following, turn the unit off and reassess:
❌ Unusual noises – Banging or rattling could mean debris is stuck.
❌ Burning smell – This could indicate an electrical issue.
❌ Tripped circuit breaker – This means the system may still have moisture inside.
If problems persist, leave the unit off and allow more time for drying before attempting another restart.
6. Preventative Measures for Next Time
To minimize damage in future storms:
- Raise the outdoor unit on a higher platform to prevent flood damage.
- Cover the unit with a protective shield (not airtight) to reduce debris entry.
- Regularly clean filters and vents to keep the system running efficiently.
