How Do You Prepare HVAC Equipment for a Storm
When a storm is coming, make sure your heating and air conditioning equipment is prepared with these recommendations from A-PLUS Service Experts.
- Protect Your System from the Surge
Install a high-quality surge protector where any heavy appliances, like a furnace, are plugged into a typical wall outlet, to automatically shut down 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 do not regularly use 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 launched in the air or washing away during a storm. If your area is prone to hurricanes, use hurricane straps to protect your air conditioning system 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 heating and air conditioning system and cover the outdoor equipment with a tarp. You must remove the tarp and any debris before you turn your system back on at the end of a storm.
After the storm has passed, be 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 system. Call A-PLUS Service Experts for a system inspection if there is any damage or flooding to the equipment. Once you’ve had an inspection by a professional, turn the HVAC system back on right away to help dry the home and limit mold from getting into the equipment 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 A-PLUS and learn about our membership plans to help keep your HVAC equipment in working order all year long.