Air conditioning and home insurance 7 things to know before the hot weather hits

Probably not. So why is it so important to clean your air conditioner? Regularly maintenance contributes to its efficient operation and lets you prevent certain problems that can damage your home. With time, dust and dirt can accumulate in the filters, the coils or the condensation water discharge system

A poorly maintained appliance can lose efficiency, consume more energy or present leakage problems In some cases, water accumulation can lead to infiltration or damage to the walls, floors and other goods located nearby

1) Air conditioning and home insurance: what is covered?

Water damage caused by an air conditioner

When the air conditioner works, it releases condensation that is discharged through a drain pipe located outside the home. Sometimes it can be blocked accidentally by the presence of various particles… Water then could accumulate and back up into the house or the dwelling.

Sometimes it can be blocked accidentally by the presence of various particles… Water then could accumulate and back up into the house or the dwelling. Water damage also is the leading cause of home insurance claims in Québec.

A fire caused by an air conditioner, depending on the coverage held

A fire of electrical origin may also occur when an air conditioner failure (an overload or a short-circuit) generates intense heat that sets fire to the neighbouring materials. Fire is covered under “specified perils” or “all risks” home insurance.

2) Air conditioner: what are the exclusions in home insurance?

• The air conditioner isn’t covered for breakage or a malfunction. The manufacturer’s warranty or the legal warranty in Québec, as the case may be, nonetheless could apply.
• A loss caused by deficient installation. Keep the installation invoices and certificates to prove that your system was installed by a certified professional.
• Damage that occur following lack of maintenance generally is not covered.
• Some insurers require that the presence of an air conditioner be declared.

3) Is a recurring leak due to lack of maintenance of the air conditioner excluded?

Yes. Damage caused by a lack of maintenance is generally excluded from home insurance coverage, except if the damage is sudden and accidental. If an air conditioner leaks indoors because its drain is blocked or the appliance was not maintained adequately, the resulting damage might not be covered.

On the other hand, a sudden and accidental situation could be covered depending on the coverage specified in the contract For example, an overflow caused by a sudden break of a water discharge system pipe could be considered a know leak neglected over time.

4) How do you clean a wall-mounted air conditioner?

• Consult the user manual to know your air conditioning system’s cleaning requirements and frequency
• Before proceeding, cut the power supply
• The filters must be cleaned frequently, once a season or once a month, as needed. Failing this, dust, animal hair and other allergens reduce the air conditioner’s efficiency. Remove this debris with a vacuum cleaner and then wash the filters in lukewarm water.
• Air conditioners and bi-bloc heat pumps (one module inside and the other one outside) must be cleaned at each location
• Inside, clean the louvres and the shell of the air conditioning by running the vacuum cleaner and using a soapy wet cloth.
• Clean the outside bloc two a year with a watering hose to dislodge the debris trapped in the outdoor coils.
• A reduction in air flow, unusual noises or the presence of an unpleasant odour are some of the signs that confirm that a cleaning is required without delay. 
• Have your air conditioning system cleaned by a specialized business every two or three years. The indoor unit might also need a grease removing product and an anti-mould product.

5) How long is the useful life of a wall-mounted air conditioner or a heat pump?

A wall-mounted air conditioner or a heat pump generally has a useful life of 10 to 15 years, depending on the quality of the appliance, its use and the maintenance it is given. Regular cleaning not only helps to optimize its performance, but also to reduce the risk of breakage or damage related to a malfunction. Periodic maintenance shows responsible management of your home, an exercise that can contribute to preventing some losses and preserving your insurance record!

Is it time to change your air conditioner? A little as in the case of a water heater, several options are then available to you: purchasing isn’t the only avenue to consider. With some distributors, it is also possible to rent a heat pump, which also remains eligible for certain government subsidies.

6) Air conditioning: what are the responsibilities of the tenant and the property owner?

Who pays for installation and maintenance of an air conditioner? When a wall-mounted air conditions belongs to the property owner and is part of the leased dwelling, major maintenance, repairs and replacement of the appliance are usually the property owner’s responsibility. However, the tenant must use it appropriately and perform current maintenance, such as cleaning the filters, when this responsibility is the tenant’s according to the lease.

A tenant who personally installs an air conditioner becomes responsible the costs related to its installation, its maintenance and any eventual damage. However, installation of stationary air conditioning by the tenant requires the property owner’s written agreement.

7) Should I notify my insurer if I install a wall-mounted air conditioner?

Yes, it is recommended to inform your insurer. Installation of a wall-mounted air conditioner may change the insurable value of your dwelling or your goods. Your insurer can confirm the applicable coverage, adjust your contract as needed and avoid any unpleasant surprises in case of a loss.

Don’t hesitate to compare different prices for home insurance; it is even possible to obtain an online quote!