Phoenix and Scottsdale are prone to large dust storms, which form as the winds of a storm front stir up small particles of sand and dirt, creating a wall of dust that can travel quite fast. Although the sight of a dust storm is impressive and can occasionally be accompanied by much-needed rain, it may deposit significant dust on your HVAC condenser and draw it into the ductwork.
This can drastically affect the performance and efficiency of your system and can even cause damage such as overheating the compressor. That’s why it’s vital to protect your HVAC unit from a dust storm.
Preparing Your HVAC Unit & Ducts Before the Storm
Typically, you won’t know a dust storm is happening until just before it arrives, but you can take a few steps to keep your HVAC system prepared for dust storms and other events.
- Keep your condenser clean: Scheduling HVAC maintenance and coil cleaning at least once a year will help keep the condenser clean and free of debris that can trap dust in the condenser coil and evaporator.
- Seal your home: Air leaks around windows, doors, and other openings provide an easy way for dust to get in your home and, eventually, the HVAC unit. Sealing drafty windows and doors with caulk or spray foam will help keep dust out and save energy.
- Seal your ductwork: Leaky air ducts will lose cool air in the summer and warm air in the winter and can draw dust into the ductwork. Have the ducts professionally sealed to save energy and protect your HVAC system.
Once you see the dust storm coming, it’s also good to shut off the HVAC system until it passes, if possible. This will minimize the chances of drawing dust inside and protect the compressor if too much dust is deposited on the condenser coil.
Need your air ducts sealed in Scottsdale or the Phoenix area? Contact Champion Air about our duct sealing services.
Call (623) 551-0600 or contact us online today.
Cleaning Up After the Storm
After the dust storm passes, it’s good to clean the condenser coil outside your home. It features a heat exchanger similar to a car radiator that releases the heat gathered from inside your home. Use a garden hose to rinse out any dust that has fallen on the coil, being careful not to bend any of the delicate fins.
It’s also smart to check the air filter for your HVAC system and clean it or replace it if the filter looks dirty. As dusty air is drawn into the return ducts, the air filter will remove much of the dust to prevent it from circulating through the HVAC system.
If your system was hit hard by dust, it’s advisable to have it professionally cleaned and serviced. This will often include cleaning the condenser coil outside, cleaning the evaporator coil inside your home, and flushing the condensate drain to prevent clogs. You may also need to clean the air ducts if the dust made it past the air filter.
Trust Champion Air To Keep Your HVAC Unit Running Well
Do you need help cleaning your HVAC system after a storm? Turn to our experts at Champion Air. We’ll inspect and clean your system, and we offer a full range of services to keep it running reliably and efficiently, including HVAC repairs and maintenance, duct sealing, duct cleaning, and more.
Our team has over 40 years of service experience in the Phoenix area. We’re proud to provide same-day service, 24/7 availability, and no overtime charges.
Call (623) 551-0600 or contact us to schedule HVAC maintenance and cleaning in Phoenix, Scottsdale, or the surrounding areas.
