How Do You Prepare HVAC Equipment for a Storm
When a storm is on its way, make sure your HVAC equipment is prepared with these recommendations from Finch Air Conditioning & Heating.
- Protect Your System from the Surge
Invest in 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 system if there’s a jump in the line voltage. Also, never to touch any electrical components, and ask for a professional’s help if you need help assistance with surge protectors.
- Make Sure Everything is Anchored
Confirm your outdoor equipment is installed on a concrete pad and properly secured to avoid the equipment from being launched in the air or washing away in a storm. If your area is prone to hurricanes, use hurricane straps to project your equipment from high winds.
- Cover Your Equipment (If Possible)
The well-being of you and your family should be priority, but if time will let you, turn off your heating and cooling system and cover the outdoor unit with a tarp. You must remove the tarp and any debris before you turn your equipment back on after a storm.
When the storm has passed, make sure the system is safe before powering it back on. First, confirm there are no indications of damage and clean any debris from around the system. Call Finch Air Conditioning & Heating for an inspection if there is any damage or flooding to the unit. Once you’ve had an inspection by a professional, turn the HVAC system back on immediately to help dry the home and avoid mold from getting into the unit 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 Finch and learn about our membership plans to help keep your HVAC equipment in working order all year long.