How Do You Prepare HVAC Equipment for a Storm
When a storm is on its way, make sure your heating and air conditioning equipment is primed with these suggestions from Sunbeam Service Experts.
- Protect Your System from the Surge
Install a high-quality surge protector where any heavy appliances, for example, a furnace, are plugged into a typical wall outlet, to automatically shut down your HVAC appliances if there’s a spike in the line voltage. Also, don’t touch any electrical components, and ask for a technician’s help if you need help assistance with surge protectors.
- Make Sure Everything is Anchored
Confirm your outside A/C equipment is installed on a concrete pad and properly secured to avoid the equipment from being thrown in the air or washing away in 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 permits, power off your heating and cooling system and cover the outdoor system with a tarp. You must remove the tarp and any debris before you turn your system back on at the end of a storm.
When the storm has passed, ensure the system is safe before turning it back on. First, make sure there are no indications of damage and clean any debris from around the equipment. Call Sunbeam Service Experts for an inspection if there is any damage or flooding to the equipment. Once you’ve had an inspection by a professional, turn the heating and cooling system back on as soon as possible to help dry the home and prevent 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 Sunbeam and learn about our membership plans to help keep your HVAC system in working order all year long.