Water damage is something every homeowner and business owner will encounter at least once in their lifetime — if not several times. It can cause a great deal of stress and frustration, not to mention the unwanted costs that come with water damage repair in Tampa and the restoration process.
Of course, that’s what makes prevention and early detection so important when owning a home or business. The more you reduce the chances of water damage, the less you have to worry about all the negativity that comes with it. When you think about it, it’s definitely worth the effort.
What makes water damage so stressful is the fact that there are plenty of different things that can cause it. Of all the potential causes of water damage in your home or business, your HVAC (heating, venting, and air conditioning) unit is one that gets overlooked far too frequently.
What Causes HVAC Water Damage in Tampa?
Most water damage from your HVAC unit is caused by a leak or condensation. Of course, there’s almost always a deeper issue that’s causing the leak, but most people won’t detect that cause early enough. Eventually, the leak builds up and causes structural damage to your home.
The most common causes of a water leak in your HVAC unit are a clogged drain line, a cracked overflow pan, a filthy air cleaner, frozen evaporator coils, low refrigerant, lack of p-trap to prevent water backup, a buildup of condensation, incorrect installation, a rusty drain pan, or failed pump.
If you’re experiencing any of the above, your HVAC unit will likely leak. In the event your leak isn’t repaired in a timely manner, you’ll likely have some water damage on the horizon — if not already. Not only does that cost money to restore, but it can be a much bigger pain in your neck.
How to Prevent HVAC Water Damage
Although a faulty or leaking HVAC unit can cause water damage in your home or business, the good news is there are a variety of ways to prevent it — or at least reduce the chances of it occurring. This can save you a ton of money in repairs and help you avoid a massive headache.
Let’s take a look at some of our most prominent tips when preventing HVAC water damage in your home or business:
- Change your HVAC filter once per month and make sure you use high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters
- Clean the HVAC dispenser and remove any dirt or debris from it once per year, preferably in the spring
- Clean and maintain your condensation drain line. You should also flush the drain line with algaecide twice per year
- If the drain line is clogged, make sure you have it repaired immediately to avoid overflow into the home
- Install a condensation pump and safety float switch to avoid overflow and ensure excess water flows into the proper drain
- Clean and maintain the overflow drain pan frequently and check for any damage, which could result in a leak
- Have your HVAC system inspected and maintained by a professional at least once per year to ensure everything is in working order
The most important thing when preventing HVAC water damage is responding quickly to any signs of an issue. If you notice a water leak, lingering smells, or something isn’t working properly, don’t wait around to have it inspected. The longer you wait, the worse the damage.
If water damage isn’t repaired and restored in a timely manner, it could welcome the growth and spread of mold throughout your home or business. At that point, you’ll need much more than just water restoration in Tampa — you’ll need quality and reliable mold remediation in Tampa.
Experiencing Water Damage? Contact Us Today!
There’s nothing fun about coming home or walking into your business and noticing water damage stemming from your HVAC unit. It’s a costly repair that no one wants to wake up to, but it’s a harsh reality for so many people in the Tampa Bay area. Luckily, we’re here to help!
If you need quality water damage restoration in Tampa — even in the presence of mold — contact DriRite for immediate assistance. We have the knowledge, experience, equipment, and passion to ensure a quality job from start to finish. It’s what we dedicate ourselves to daily.
To learn more about our restoration process or to receive a free estimate with one of our certified restoration experts, contact us today. We can’t wait to bring some peace to your tragic situation.
Chief Executive Officer
Mike Campbell is a highly experienced professional specializing in structural drying, mold remediation, and environmental consulting. With certifications such as OSHA HAZWOPER, council-certified microbial remediator, and state of Florida licensed mold remediator, he offers tailored solutions to clients at DriRite. With specialized training from the IICRC, Mike is equipped with advanced skills in categories such as applied structural drying, commercial drying, and water damage restoration. This expertise allows him to deliver comprehensive and effective solutions to water-related issues. His dedication to providing exceptional service and expertise makes him a valuable resource in the field.
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