What to Do If a Tree Fell on Your AC Unit in St. Louis

If a tree falls on your AC unit, your first step is to make sure everyone is safe, turn off power to the unit, and then call professionals for removal and repair. After that, document the damage for your insurance and schedule a qualified HVAC technician to inspect and fix the unit.

 

Ensure Safety and Power Shutoff

 

Before doing anything else, stay clear of the fallen tree and the air conditioner. A fallen tree can damage electrical wiring, creating a shock hazard. Go to your home’s electrical panel and switch off the circuit or breaker labeled for the outdoor air conditioner. If you can’t find the right switch, turn off the main breaker. Never touch the AC or any wet areas if the power is still on.

 

Check for Hazards

 

• Look for downed electrical lines around the fallen tree.
• Ensure no branches are pressing on your roof or windows, causing additional risk.
• If you see power lines on the ground, immediately call your electric utility or emergency services and stay at least 30 feet away.

 

Document the Damage

 

Take clear photos and videos from several angles. Capture close-ups of dents, broken components, bent panels, or refrigerant line damage. Note any debris or splintered wood on or around the unit. This evidence will be vital when you file an insurance claim.

 

Contact Your Insurance Company

 

• Call your homeowner’s insurance agent as soon as possible and report the incident.
• Provide the photos and videos you took to support your claim.
• Ask about your policy’s coverage for tree removal, property damage, and HVAC repairs or replacement.
• Keep records of all communications, claim numbers, and adjuster visits.

 

Arrange Safe Tree Removal

 

A fallen tree can be heavy and unstable. Hire a certified tree removal service or an arborist. They have the right tools—like chainsaws, wood chippers, and cranes—to safely remove branches and trunk sections without further harming your AC unit or property. Never attempt to cut or move a large tree on your own.

 

Professional HVAC Inspection and Repair

 

After the tree is cleared, an HVAC technician must carefully inspect your unit. Key areas they’ll check include:

• Refrigerant Lines: Look for leaks or kinks in copper tubing that carries the coolant.
• Electrical Components: Test capacitors, contactors, wiring connections, and the unit’s compressor for damage.
• Condenser Coils and Fins: Check for bent fins, coils blocked by debris, or damage to the coil housing.
• Fan Motor and Blades: Ensure the fan spins freely and that the motor bearings aren’t damaged.
• Unit Mounting Pad: Confirm the unit sits level and stable; a shifted pad can affect performance.

If parts are bent, leaking, or not functioning, the technician will repair or replace them. In severe cases, a full unit replacement may be safer and more cost-effective.

 

Restore Power and Test Operation

 

Once repairs are complete, the technician will restore power to the unit. They’ll measure electrical draw, test refrigerant pressures, and verify that the system cools properly without unusual noises or vibrations. Watching the unit run through a full cooling cycle ensures it’s back to normal operation.

 

Prevent Future Tree-Related Damage

 

After resolving the immediate problem, take steps to protect your AC unit:

• Trim or remove overhanging branches from trees near your outdoor unit.
• Keep at least a 3-foot clearance around the unit for airflow and debris-free operation.
• Regularly schedule professional tree inspections to spot weak limbs before storms.
• Consider protective barriers—such as heavy-duty grilling racks—designed to deflect falling debris while not blocking airflow.

If you live in St. Louis or Nashville, local full-service teams can handle both tree removal and HVAC repair quickly, helping you get your system back online safely and efficiently.