How Do You Prepare HVAC Equipment for a Storm
When a storm is coming, make sure your heating and air conditioning equipment is ready with these tips from Strand Brothers Service Experts.
- Protect Your System from the Surge
Install a high-quality surge protector where any heavy appliances, for example, a furnace, are plugged into a standard wall outlet, to automatically turn off your equipment if there’s a jump in the line voltage. Also, do not touch any electrical components, and ask for a technician’s help if you need help assistance with surge protectors.
- Make Sure Everything is Anchored
Confirm your outside cooling 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 community is prone to hurricanes, use hurricane straps to project your equipment from high winds.
- Cover Your Equipment (If Possible)
The safety of you and your family should come first, but if time allows, power off your HVAC system and cover the outdoor system with a tarp. You must remove the tarp and any debris before you turn your equipment back on following a storm.
After the storm has passed, be sure the system is safe before starting it back up. First, verify there are no indications of damage and clean any debris from around the unit. Call Strand Brothers Service Experts for a system inspection if there is any damage or flooding to the equipment. Once you’ve had the system inspected by a professional, turn the HVAC system back on ASAP to help dry the home and prevent mold from getting into the equipment 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 Strand Brothers and learn about our membership plans to help keep your heating and cooling equipment in working order all year long.