How Much Water Is Too Much?
Click on each level below to see how different water levels may affect the HVAC system.
CONDENSING UNIT
If water levels don’t reach this line, the electrical components are probably safe from water exposure.
If water levels reach this zone, several components may be affected, but the condensing unit may be returned to pre-loss condition through minor repairs. An HVAC expert would be able to determine the scope of damage and provide recommendations based on best practices.
If water levels reach this zone, they may have caused enough damage to require the condensing unit’s replacement. While this is a more major repair, a full HVAC system replacement is unlikely. An expert would be able to confirm the scope of the loss.
All zones of potential damage levels are shown together here.
Condensing Unit Components Susceptible to Water Damage
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Electrical components, including circuits, wiring, motors, and electronics
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If the condensing unit shifts on its pad, the copper lineset may break or kink, allowing contaminants to enter the refrigerant loop
VERTICAL FURNACE
If water levels don’t reach this line, the electrical components are probably safe from water exposure.
If water levels reach this zone, several components may be affected, but the vertical furnace is likely repairable. An HVAC expert would be able to determine the scope of damage and provide recommendations based on best practices.
If water levels reach this zone, they may have caused enough damage to require the furnace’s replacement. While this is a more major repair, a full HVAC system replacement is unlikely. An expert would be able to confirm the scope of loss.
All zones of potential damage levels are shown together here.
HORIZONTAL FURNACE
If water levels don’t reach this line, the electrical components are probably safe from water exposure.
If water levels reach this zone, several components may be affected, but the condensing unit may be returned to pre-loss condition through more minor repairs. An HVAC expert would be able to determine the scope of damage and provide recommendations based on best practices.
If water levels reach this zone, they may have caused enough damage to require the horizontal furnace's replacement. While this is a more major repair, a full HVAC system replacement is unlikely. An expert would be able to confirm the scope of the loss.
All zones of potential damage levels are shown together here.
Furnace Components
Susceptible to Water Damage
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Electrical components, including circuits, wiring, motors, and electronics
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The blower wheel and motor
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Ductwork, ductboard, insulation
What Does Water Damage Mean for Claims?
Below are the three residential HVAC systems most commonly determined to be water damaged by HVACi in 2025.
Hover over each system to learn what percentage of water damaged equipment they represent.
Three Residential Systems Most Commonly Determined
To Be Damaged by Water
Possible Sources of Water Damage
Click through the photo gallery to see the most common sources of water damage.
Water damage is a leading cause of split system losses, but full replacements are not usually required to return equipment to pre-loss conditions. Adjusters should confirm the cause of loss and scope of damage to ensure they settle claims accurately. HVACi’s team of licensed professionals can provide recommendations for the best next steps, including Like Kind and Quality components.
More HVAC Water Damage Claim Resources
A policyholder reported that a sewer line failure caused wastewater to back up through a toilet and shower drain, damaging a natural gas furnace. With a total split system replacement cost of $10,685, the adjuster knew it was important to confirm the cause and scope of loss and evaluate reparability. Find out how HVACi provided the adjuster with all the information needed for an accurate, timely resolution.
READ THE CASE STUDYOpens in a new window.Many variables impact water losses in HVAC claims, including the water source and contractor recommendations. Learn how these variables may affect the scope of the damage and possible repairs for residential and commercial HVAC systems.
Read the article nowOpens in a new window.Save a PDF version of this guide with water level danger zones, components susceptible to water damage, and information about other water-related concerns.
