How to Prepare HVAC Equipment for a Storm
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 Stevenson Service Experts.
- Protect Your System from the Surge
Install a high-quality surge protector where any heavy appliances, such as a furnace, are plugged into a typical wall outlet, to automatically turn off 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 are not familiar with using 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 tossed in the air or washing away in a storm. If your community 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 come first, but if time permits, turn off your HVAC system and cover the outdoor system with a tarp. Be sure to remove the tarp and any debris before you turn your equipment back on at the end of a storm.
- Check For Damage
After the storm has passed, make sure the system is safe before powering it back on. First, make sure there are no indications of damage and clean any debris from around the unit. Call Stevenson Service Experts for a system 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 prevent mold from getting into the system or ductwork.
If your system has suffered any damage, check out these recommendations on what to do if your equipment suffers damage and then call Stevenson Service Experts and learn about our membership plans to help keep your HVAC system in working order all year long.