The Arizona monsoon season, which runs from June to September, is a double-edged sword. The storms bring much-needed rain but also powerful winds, dust storms (known as haboobs), lightning, and heavy rain. For Arizona homeowners, this season poses a serious threat to their HVAC systems. A dust storm can turn a day into night in minutes, leaving a thick layer of dust on everything in its path—including your AC unit.  

By preparing your system and knowing what to do during and after a storm, you can protect your investment and avoid a costly breakdown during the hottest time of the year.

The Threat: How Monsoons Attack Your AC

Monsoon storms can harm your HVAC unit in several ways :  

• Dust and Dirt: Fine dust and sand particles get sucked into your outdoor condenser unit, clogging the coils, restricting airflow, and forcing your system to work harder to cool your home.  

• High Winds and Debris: The strong winds can snap off tree branches and send trash and other debris flying, which can bend your fan blades, dent panels, or become lodged inside your unit.  

• Power Surges: The frequent lightning that accompanies monsoon storms can cause power surges that fry your system's control board and other sensitive electrical components.  

• Heavy Rain and Flooding: Heavy rainfall can mix with dust to create mud that hardens on your coils, and if your unit is set on the ground, floodwater can damage electrical parts and cause corrosion.  

Your Monsoon Prep Checklist

Here is a simple, three-stage checklist to protect your HVAC system this monsoon season :  

Before the Storm

• Stock up on air filters: Due to the high amount of dust in the air, your air filter will likely need to be replaced more often. While a filter typically lasts 90 days, it may only last 30 days during monsoon season. Having a few extra on hand will prevent a last-minute trip to the hardware store.  

• Clear the area around your unit: Make sure to keep at least 18 inches to two feet of space clear around your outdoor condenser unit on all sides. This allows the unit to "breathe and perform efficiently" and prevents airborne debris from getting sucked in.  

• Install surge protection: To protect your system's electrical components from lightning-induced power surges, consider having an electrician install a whole-home surge protector.  

During the Storm

• Turn off your AC system: When a dust storm is approaching, you should turn off your HVAC system at the thermostat. This simple action prevents a large influx of dust from being drawn into the unit, which can overwhelm the condenser coil and damage the compressor.  

• Close your doors and windows: Seal your home to prevent dust from getting inside. Once dust gets into your home, it can recirculate through your HVAC system and cause long-term problems.  

After the Storm

• Inspect and clean: Once the storm passes, check the area around your outdoor unit for debris. Gently rinse the unit with a garden hose on a low setting, starting from the top and working down, to flush out accumulated dirt.  

• Do not use a high-pressure jet, as it can bend the delicate fins on the coil.  

• Check your air filter: Your indoor filter has been working hard during the storm. Check it for excessive dust and replace it if needed.  

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By following these simple steps, you can protect your air conditioner from the elements and ensure it continues to run efficiently throughout Arizona's most challenging season.