Most of the time, Florida’s weather is worth appreciating. But our state is also wracked by bad weather, and if anything, hurricane season is getting worse. If your climate control system fails during a major storm, it can take a while to get repairs with so many people dealing with the damage.
So, how can you prep your HVAC for a major storm? Here are our top tips:
Precool Your Home
Normally, “precooling” your home is inefficient, but if you anticipate a lengthy power outage, it’s worth lowering the temperature substantially so it heats up less. If you do decide to precool, keep your windows and curtains closed. Then set your unit to about sixty to prep your HVAC for a major storm. It can help comfort you, your pets, and plants, though be aware that it does use quite a bit of energy.
Power Down Completely
When the storm hits, power your system down completely. You should also do this if you evacuate and your home will be empty. Turning your system off protects it from power surges caused by lightning strikes or power interruptions. On top of that, an external unit that is running will be damaged more if it is hit by falling debris or flooded out.
Don’t just turn it off to prep your HVAC for a major storm. It is best to flip the breaker to isolate it, either before the hurricane hits or when you evacuate. Power surges can damage your compressor and can even fry the entire system. In fact, when you evacuate, shut your electricity off completely and unplug all appliances.
Secure Your Outdoor Unit
There’s only so much you can do to protect your outdoor unit from major damage, such as a tree falling on it. However, you can protect it from smaller debris and flooding with the following steps:
- Regularly remove brush, branches, and other debris from the vicinity of your unit. Have a tree surgeon trim overhanging branches.
- Check for loose screws or bolts and tighten them.
- Use tie-downs to secure your outdoor unit. Even if you have a hurricane pad, and you should, consider getting a tie-down kit.
- Cover the unit with a proper storm cage. Tarps will not work in hurricane conditions; they’ll just become another piece of flying debris. Instead, use plywood secured with bungee cords.
Consider elevating your unit to reduce the risk of flooding. This isn’t a DIY task— have a professional assess whether your outdoor unit is properly secured for hurricane conditions. Now is an ideal time for it, before storm season starts. Heat pumps should also be elevated.
If you are home during the storm, resist the temptation to check on your outdoor unit or anything else outside. It can be dangerous! Also, don’t forget to bring in your patio furniture and other outdoor items that could become missiles.
Protect Your Wiring
While you should turn your climate control unit off during a hurricane, installing a surge protector is a great way to prep your HVAC for a major storm. Doing this will help protect your unit and wiring from unexpected surges or from severe weather that hits while you are out of town. Also, consider having a whole-home surge protector for better coverage.
Get a regular electrical system inspection, including your heating and cooling unit. If the power goes out during a storm, unplug everything. Power surges are very common when power is restored.
Ways to Protect From Flood Waters
Flooding from storm surges or heavy rain is common in low-lying Florida. We’ve already talked about elevating your external unit for extra protection. However, flooding can also affect the other parts of your system. Here are some ways to protect your HVAC system and your home:
- Check your basement’s sump pump, if you have one. Make sure it works well before storm season.
- Consider adding a floor drain near your climate control system, which can also help protect your basement.
- Install flood sensors near your air conditioning system so you know if water gets in. If these sensors go off, turn the system off, as systems can ingest water and take damage.
If you’re getting a new system installed, consider moving it somewhere less flood-prone. For example, you may want to put your outdoor unit on the uphill side of your home.
After the Storm
After the storm, inspect your system thoroughly before turning it back on. If you suspect any damage, call an HVAC professional to do a full inspection and any necessary repairs. Take photos of any damage immediately in case you need to make a claim on your insurance.
Now is a great time to get a full system inspection to prep your HVAC for a major storm. Let us take a look and help you with any additional precautions before the first hurricane hits. Contact Kabran to schedule your inspection today. We can help protect your system from bad weather and keep it running for years to come.
