When the Waters Rise: Protecting and Restarting Commercial HVAC Systems After Flooding

Catastrophic flooding in the Texas Hill Country this summer has left many businesses and facilities reeling—and their HVAC systems submerged, damaged, or completely shut down. As extreme weather events become more common, HVAC professionals must take the lead in helping clients prepare their commercial and industrial systems for whatever comes next.

At Re-Coil Solutions, we know the importance of having a plan—not just for recovery, but for resilience. Here’s how you can help your clients can safeguard their commercial HVAC systems before a flood, and what to do when it’s time to restart them.

Why Flood Preparation Matters for Commercial HVAC

Floods can be devastating to HVAC systems, particularly in large facilities where downtime means lost revenue, discomfort, or even health hazards. Electrical damage, coil corrosion, compressor failure, and mold contamination are just a few of the potential consequences. Preventative action can save thousands in repairs—or prevent a total system loss.

Pre-Flood Preparation Checklist

1. Evaluate Equipment Placement

• Is your HVAC system installed in a flood-prone zone or below known flood levels? If so, consider elevating key components like air handlers, control panels, and compressors above base flood elevation.

• Where relocation isn’t possible, flood barriers and waterproof housings offer additional protection.

2. Protect Outdoor Units

• Install sandbags or permanent flood barriers around ground-level equipment.

• Use marine-grade or weatherproof enclosures for sensitive electronics and wiring.

3. Ensure Easy Emergency Access

• Clearly label disconnects and shutoffs so building staff can act quickly in an emergency.

• Make sure shutoff switches are elevated and protected from water.

4. Document Everything

• Keep current equipment diagrams, serial numbers, and maintenance records on file—digitally and off-site.

• Encourage facility managers to review insurance coverage for flood-related HVAC damage.

5. Maintain Coil Health

• Coils that are aging, corroded, or inefficient are more vulnerable in a flood. Proactively replacing worn coils ensures better performance and lowers the risk of post-flood system failure.

After the Flood: Restarting HVAC Systems Safely

Once waters recede, resist the urge to power systems back on immediately. Premature activation can cause more damage—and pose safety risks. Follow these best practices before restarting:

1. Safety First

• Have a licensed professional inspect all systems before turning them on.

• Check for standing water, electrical hazards, or gas leaks.

2. Conduct a Full Inspection

• Assess all components: coils, compressors, blowers, fans, and ductwork.

• Look for signs of corrosion, water damage, or debris intrusion—especially around copper or aluminum coil fins.

3. Clean Thoroughly

• Sanitize ductwork and affected surfaces to prevent mold growth.

• Replace any soaked insulation, filters, or soft materials.

4. Test Electrical Systems

• Even a small amount of water can compromise motors, circuit boards, and sensors.

• Replace any components showing signs of shorting, rust, or damage.

5. Know When to Repair vs. Replace

• If coils or key components are compromised, full replacement may be more cost-effective and reliable than patchwork repairs. Re-Coil Solutions offers custom-built coil replacements to get systems back up and running fast.

We’re Here When You Need Us

At Re-Coil Solutions, we specialize in custom coil fabrication for commercial and industrial systems—including fast-turnaround replacements after emergencies. Our experienced technicians offer on-site measurement and consultation to ensure a perfect fit, minimal downtime, and peak performance.

Whether you’re helping a client plan ahead or dealing with the aftermath of a flood, we’re here to help you get the job done right.

Don’t Wait for the Next Storm

The best time to prepare was yesterday. The second-best time is today. Protect your systems before the next extreme weather event strikes—and know you’ve got a partner in your corner when recovery is needed.