After the Storm: 7 Hidden AC Issues to Watch For (Plus How HVACMaster Has You Covered)
Spring storms can leave more than broken branches and flooded streets in their wake. Even if your air conditioner escaped obvious damage—like a tree limb crashing through the condenser—subtle problems may be lurking that can undermine performance or lead to a costly summer breakdown. Before you crank the AC on full blast, use this checklist to spot issues you might otherwise miss. And a big thank-you to City Utilities for working around the clock to restore power so quickly—now let HVACMaster make sure your cooling system is ready for the heat.
1. Bent or Clogged Coil Fins
What to look for: Fine, aluminum “fins” on the condenser coil that are bent, crushed, or blocked by debris. Even slight bending can reduce airflow and lower efficiency.
Quick check: From a safe distance, visually scan the coils for uneven or darkened sections. Gently brush away any loose debris with a soft broom.
2. Loose or Exposed Wiring
What to look for: Storm-blown branches or hail can loosen electrical connections or chip away insulation. Exposed wiring can lead to shorts or complete system failure.
Quick check: With the unit powered off at the breaker, peek under the service panel for signs of fraying or loose terminals.
3. Refrigerant Leaks (Subtle Signs)
What to look for: Hissing sounds, oily spots around fittings, or a sudden drop in cooling capacity. Even a small leak can cause your AC to struggle on hot days.
Quick check: Listen closely for soft hisses when the unit is running. If airflow feels weaker than usual, schedule a professional leak test.
4. Misaligned or Damaged Fan Blades
What to look for: Hail dents or debris impacts that bend fan blades. A wobbling blade can wear bearings and lead to motor burnout.
Quick check: From eye level, spin the fan by hand (with power off). It should turn smoothly and quietly without wobble.
5. Drain Line Blockages or Leaks
What to look for: Clogged condensate lines can cause water to back up and leak into your home, while cracks can drip water onto electrical parts.
Quick check: Inspect the PVC drain pipe for standing water or green slime. A quick vinegar flush can clear minor clogs—any ongoing issue warrants a pro visit.
6. Compressor Vibrations or Strange Noises
What to look for: Pinging, rattling, or grinding sounds after a storm can indicate loose mounts, internal damage, or foreign objects inside the cabinet.
Quick check: Stand a few feet away and listen while the compressor runs—any noise that sounds out of the ordinary is worth a deeper look.
7. Thermostat & Control Calibration
What to look for: Power surges during outages can reset or confuse digital thermostats, causing incorrect temperature readings or erratic cycling.
Quick check: Compare the thermostat’s displayed temperature to an independent room thermometer. If they don’t match, recalibrate or call HVACMaster to recalibrate for you.
Why DIY Alone Isn’t Enough
City Utilities did an amazing job restoring power—but your AC needs its own inspection. HVACMaster shows up with a tool bag, not a price sheet. We’ll repair first wherever possible, saving you money and extending your system’s life.
- Maintenance Made Effortless: Enroll in our Energy Savings Agreement and we’ll handle spring tune-ups, fall furnace checks, and give you priority scheduling plus discounts on parts & labor.
- Financing Options: If we uncover damage beyond repair, ask about our affordable financing to get you into a new, energy-efficient system without breaking the bank.
- Repair-First Philosophy: We’ll fix what’s working before recommending replacement—guaranteed.
Ready for a Post-Storm Checkup?
Don’t wait for a full-blown breakdown on the hottest day of the year. Reach out to HVACMaster today to schedule your storm damage inspection and spring tune-up:
📞 Call Us: 417-655-3542
🌐 Book Online: www.hvacmaster.com/contact
🔧 Maintenance Plan: https://hvacmaster.com/maintenance-club/
Let us turn storm worries into summer comfort—tool bag in hand, not a price sheet!
