During stormy weather, it is important that your HVAC unit is protected. Avoiding any unnecessary damage or electrical incidents not only saves money, but also keeps you and your family safe. Here are some ideas for preparing your HVAC unit for stormy weather:
Preparing your HVAC System for a Storm
1. Turn off your HVAC system. When a big storm is coming, it’s best to turn off your HVAC unit entirely to prevent any electrical damage in case of a lightning strike. If it is warm out and you’ll be shutting off your air conditioning, you can also pre-cool your home by turning down the temperature by a few degrees and closing all windows and doors. This will keep your home cooler for longer without using the HVAC system during a storm.
2. Use a surge protector. If you opt not to turn off your HVAC system, make sure you use a surge protector. This will prevent the unit from being damaged if there is a lightning storm, and it keeps your home safer.
3. Cover, protect, and secure the outside unit. The outdoor air conditioning unit needs to be protected in order to prepare your HVAC system for stormy weather. Use a cover, tarp, and/or plywood to cover the unit. Make sure it is secured so that it does not get picked up by severe winds. Use hurricane straps if necessary for a very large, windy storm. Cover the unit to protect from any debris, and don’t forget to check for any debris before you turn the unit back on. If the area around your outdoor air conditioning unit is prone to flooding, consider putting the unit on a raised platform to minimize any water damage from a storm. For assistance with securing your outdoor air conditioning unit, contact Beam HVAC.
4. Get your HVAC system inspected. Regular routine maintenance and inspection is critical for HVAC systems. This maintenance can help head off any problems in advance of a storm. Contact Beam HVAC for your routine HVAC inspection.
After the Storm
Once the storm passes, carefully check for any issues with the HVAC system before using it again. It’s important to keep an eye out for any damage from flooding, debris, or electricity. You should also check that there is no damage to the air conditioning unit refrigerant line. If you find any damage to part of your HVAC system, be sure to get it inspected and fixed before using it again so that you stay safe and don’t damage the system further.
After following these ideas on preparing your HVAC unit for stormy weather, consult Beam HVAC if you suspect a problem with your HVAC system.
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