Your A/C is designed to withstand the elements. However, that doesn't mean it's not still susceptible to rust. It doesn't happen often, but when it does, it can spell serious trouble for your HVAC system. Here's how a rusty air conditioner can affect you, and what you can do about it.
The Dangers of Rust
Rust tends to be more common in coastal areas. Salt in the air settles on your A/C and begins to corrode it. However, rust can still happen in Oklahoma as well, particularly during periods of very high humidity. If corrosion is allowed to occur, it will often also void your system's warranty, making repairs a lot more costly.
Rust on the outside of your unit can be unsightly. However, the real problem is when corrosion starts to happen inside the unit, and the condenser coil begins to rust. This can stop the system from functioning as it should, and ultimately cause it to fail entirely. The longer the rust and corrosion are left unchecked, the worse the damage will end up being.
What to Do About Rust
A rusty air conditioner can be fixed, if you catch it in the early stages. With a degreasing solution, a nylon brush, and some sandpaper, you can even remove it yourself. Then, repaint the unit with a rust-proof primer and a layer of rust-proof paint, to prevent it from happening again.
If the problem is more serious than just surface damage, you should call your HVAC technician to deal with it. They can make the necessary repairs, as well as take steps to keep further corrosion from happening in the future. Be warned, though: if the rust damage is too severe, you may need to replace your system.
If you want to prevent a rusty A/C, the most effective way is to schedule your annual HVAC maintenance visit every year, so your technician can spot rust and deal with it before it becomes a problem.
For help fixing or replacing your rusty air conditioner, contact us at Air Assurance. We're Broken Arrow's trusted source for quality HVAC solutions.