How Do You Prepare HVAC Equipment for a Storm
When a storm is coming, make sure your heating and air conditioning equipment is primed with these tips from Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning.
- 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 HVAC appliances if there’s a jump in the line voltage. Also, never to touch any electrical components, and ask for an expert’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 properly secured to avoid the equipment from being thrown in the air or washing away throughout the course of a storm. If your region is prone to hurricanes, use hurricane straps to keep your equipment safe from high winds.
- Cover Your Equipment (If Possible)
The well-being of you and your family is priority, but if time permits, power off your heating and cooling system and cover the outdoor equipment with a tarp. You must remove the tarp and any debris before you turn your unit back on at the end of a storm.
Once the storm has passed, make sure the system is safe before powering it back on. First, verify there are no signs of damage and clean any debris from around the equipment. Call Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning for an inspection if there is any damage or flooding to the unit. Once you’ve had an inspection by a professional, turn the equipment back on right away to help dry the home and prevent mold from getting into the unit or ductwork.
If your system has suffered any damage, check out these recommendations 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 heating and cooling equipment in working order all year long.