Hurricanes and other natural disasters can cause a lot of damage to our homes, including the HVAC systems. The sudden onslaught of strong winds, flooding, and rain can cause problems for the units. It is important to prepare your HVAC before the storm hits.
Preparing your home for hurricane season is essential to the safety of your family, but there are steps you can take to ensure that your HVAC equipment stays up and running during the storm.
HVAC units have a tendency to break down during hurricanes and other harsh weather conditions, which is why homeowners need to prepare their HVAC systems for the upcoming storm season.
Preparing your HVAC System for a Storm/Hurricane
Here are a few tips to help you prepare your HVAC unit before the stormy season hits:
1) Get A Portable Generator Ready:
Portable generators are a must-have in case you lose power during the storm. If you have an electric heat pump, you will need a generator to keep it working during power outages.
A portable generator is a lifesaver when a power outage lasts more than a few hours, which is likely in the case of an extreme weather event like a hurricane or severe storm. But generators will only work if they’re maintained properly, and you should prepare yours now, so it’s ready when you need it later in the year.
2) Inspect your HVAC Unit:
A major issue is that people don’t have their units inspected before the hurricane season until after they lose power during a storm because they hadn’t done so before and notice that their system is not working. This can pose a much bigger problem after the storm has passed, as you want your system to be in good condition before any storms hit.
It’s important to get a professional inspection done on your HVAC unit before hurricane season hits. A professional will be able to tell if there are any issues with the system that need to be addressed. An HVAC inspection will ensure your system is working properly and ready for any upcoming storms in the area.
Regular inspections and maintenance can help you avoid these costly repairs. Unusual sounds or smells from your HVAC unit could be warning signs that it’s time for repairs.
3) Getting a Surge Protector:
The basic reason why every home or business needs a surge protector is that most appliances and devices these days have sensitive electronics and circuitry. This circuitry is susceptible to damage from power surges, which are often the result of storms and hurricanes.
As a homeowner, it’s important to know how to prepare HVAC units for hurricanes by getting a surge protector. Surge protectors can help decrease the risk of property damage and save you money on costly repairs.
A surge protector is a piece of equipment that protects the HVAC system from electrical spikes, sudden voltage changes, and power surges that can damage the compressor, furnace, and other components. It acts as a buffer between the utility power and the indoor system, preventing damage to equipment during adverse weather conditions.
Surge protectors use metal-oxide varistors (MOVs) to clamp down on voltage spikes before they reach your AC unit’s wiring or controls. They are designed to withstand high-energy surges that travel through utility wires.
4) Protecting Outside Unit:
Although the outside units are meant to be built for the outside, it’s a good idea to cover them. This can be done by installing a plastic tarp over the outside unit, or even a heavy-duty, custom-made cover. If possible, the coils should also be covered with a protective shield to prevent water from damaging any parts of the system.
5) Shutting Down HVAC Unit:
If you live in an area where hurricanes, thunderstorms, and other severe storms are common, you have probably heard the advice given by your local utility company; to shut down your HVAC unit during a storm. This is because if your unit is connected to the electrical grid, your home can be subject to power surges that can lead to expensive repairs and even fires. The question of when it’s safe to turn on your HVAC after a storm has passed is pretty simple. When you start seeing sunlight and blue skies, it’s time to flip the switch back on.
Conclusion:
Protecting your HVAC unit from damage is a key step in preparing for a hurricane or other stormy weather. By following the steps above- mentioned, you can help ensure your HVAC unit will be ready to withstand whatever nature throws its way. If you need assistance with your Heating or Cooling Units, contact us today. We look forward to hearing from you!
