How Do You Prepare HVAC Equipment for a Storm
When a storm is coming, make sure your heating and cooling equipment is ready with these suggestions from Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning.
- Protect Your System from the Surge
Invest in a high-quality surge protector where any heavy appliances, such as a furnace, are plugged into a standard wall outlet, to automatically shut off your HVAC appliances if there’s a spike in the line voltage. Also, don’t touch any electrical components, and ask for a professional’s help if you need help assistance with surge protectors.
- Make Sure Everything is Anchored
Confirm your outside A/C equipment is installed on a concrete pad and securely fastened to avoid the equipment from being thrown in the air or washing away during a storm. If your area is prone to hurricanes, use hurricane straps to project your equipment 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. You must remove the tarp and any debris before you turn your unit back on after a storm.
Once the storm has passed, be sure the system is safe before powering it back on. First, make sure there are no indications of damage and clean any debris from around the system. Call Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning for an equipment inspection if there is any damage or flooding to the unit. Once you’ve had the equipment inspected by a professional, turn the equipment back on as soon as possible to help dry the home and prevent mold from getting into the unit or ductwork.
If your air conditioner has suffered any damage, check out these tips on What To Do If Your Air Conditioning System Experiences Flooding or Hail Damage and then call Service Experts and learn about our membership plans to help keep your HVAC equipment in working order all year long.