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 Stevenson 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 typical wall outlet, to automatically shut down your system if there’s a increase in the line voltage. Also, do not touch any electrical components, and ask for a professional’s help if you are not familiar with using surge protectors.
- Make Sure Everything is Anchored
Confirm your outside A/C equipment is installed on a concrete pad and properly secured to avoid the equipment from being launched in the air or washing away throughout the course of a storm. If your region is prone to hurricanes, use hurricane straps to protect your air conditioning system from high winds.
- Cover Your Equipment (If Possible)
The well-being of you and your family should come first, but if time will let you, power off your heating and cooling system and cover the outdoor equipment with a tarp. Make sure you remove the tarp and any debris before you turn your unit back on after a storm.
Once the storm has passed, make sure the system is safe before powering it back on. First, verify there are no indicators of damage and clean any debris from around the unit. Call Stevenson 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 heating and cooling system back on right away to help dry the home and avoid 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 Stevenson and learn about our membership plans to help keep your HVAC system in working order all year long.