As we approach another hurricane season, the stark memories of last year’s devastating hurricanes, Helene and Milton, remind us of the unstoppable forces of nature. These storms unleashed powerful winds and floodwaters that caused widespread destruction and disrupted countless lives here in Florida.
While we can’t control the weather, we can control how prepared we are to face it. Empower yourself and protect your HVAC system by preparing for what’s ahead now.
Understanding the Impact of Hurricanes on Your HVAC System
Your heating and cooling system can face severe stress and potential damage during a hurricane. First, flying debris poses a threat to outdoor units, where even a small object can dent or displace components. Second, flooding is a significant risk, especially when water infiltrates electrical parts, causing short circuits or corrosion.
Power outages can also affect HVAC functions, possibly damaging internal systems if not properly shut down.
Now, let’s get prepared!
Essential Pre-Season HVAC Inspections
Follow these steps to protect your investment and ensure that your home stays comfortable regardless of the weather:
- Schedule a Pre-Season Inspection: Book an appointment with our professionals to check for wear, potential damage, and to ensure that your system is running efficiently.
- Secure Outdoor Units: Make sure outdoor HVAC units are anchored properly. Consider additional straps or brackets for further stability.
- Elevate Your Unit: If flooding is a concern, elevate the outdoor unit to prevent water damage.
- Clear Debris: Regularly clear away leaves, sticks, and other debris from around your outdoor condenser unit to ensure it remains unobstructed.
- Invest in a Surge Protector: Protect your system from power surges and outages by installing a high-quality whole-home surge protector.
- Cover When Necessary: Use a tarp or specialized cover to protect your unit from flying debris, but ensure it is removed once the storm passes to prevent moisture build-up.
- Plan for Power Safety: Know how to safely turn off and restart your system. This can prevent electrical issues when the power is unstable before and after a storm.
Taking these steps now will save you from potential headaches and costs associated with repairing your HVAC system post-storm. And remember, we are just a call away to help!
What to Look for Post Storm
Once the storm has passed, it’s important to give your air conditioning system a thorough check. If safe to do so, start with a visual inspection of your outdoor unit, looking for signs of visible damage such as dents, bent fins, or displaced parts.
Inspect the surroundings as well; clear any obstructions around the unit to ensure it has proper airflow. Debris like branches, leaves, and dirt can also accumulate, potentially hindering performance. Check for unusual noises when restarting the system, as these could indicate internal damage.
Don’t overlook your indoor components. Check the thermostat and indoor unit for any functional irregularities. If there’s any sign of electrical damage or if the system fails to start normally, we recommend reaching out to our professional technicians to conduct a detailed post-storm assessment.
The Details Matter During Hurricane Season
In the face of last year’s hurricanes Helene and Milton, being prepared for the upcoming hurricane season is not just wise, it’s essential. Your HVAC system deserves the same attention as any other part of your emergency preparedness plan.
Take the proactive step today: Contact Integrity Home Solutions for expert advice and services that can help stormproof your HVAC system. Don’t wait for the next storm to catch you off guard—reach out to us and ensure your peace of mind as hurricane season begins again.
