How to Prepare HVAC Equipment for a Storm
How Do You Prepare HVAC Equipment for a Storm?
When a storm is approaching, make sure your heating and cooling equipment is prepared with these recommendations from Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing.
- Protect Your System from the Surge
Purchase a high-quality surge protector where any heavy appliances, for example, a furnace, are plugged into a typical wall outlet, to automatically shut off your HVAC appliances if there’s a increase in the line voltage. Also, never to touch any electrical components, and ask for a professional’s help if you do not regularly use surge protectors.
- Make Sure Everything is Anchored
Confirm your outside cooling equipment is installed on a concrete pad and safely secured to avoid the equipment from being tossed in the air or washing away in a storm. If your area is prone to hurricanes, use hurricane straps to protect your air conditioning system from high winds.
- Cover Your Equipment (If Possible)
The welfare of you and your family should come first, but if time allows, power off your heating and cooling system and cover the outdoor unit with a tarp. Make sure you remove the tarp and any debris before you turn your unit back on following a storm.
- Check For Damage
Once the storm has passed, make sure the system is safe before turning it back on. First, verify there are no indicators of damage and clean any debris from around the equipment. Call Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for an inspection if there is any damage or flooding to the unit. Once you’ve had the equipment inspected by a professional, turn the HVAC system back on as soon as possible to help dry the home and limit mold from getting into the system or ductwork.
If your air conditioner has suffered any damage, check out these recommendations on what to do if your equipment suffers damage and then call Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing and learn about our membership plans to help keep your heating and cooling equipment in working order all year long.