How Do You Prepare HVAC Equipment for a Storm
When a storm is approaching, make sure your heating and air conditioning equipment is primed with these suggestions from D&K Home Services by Enercare.
- Protect Your System from the Surge
Install a high-quality surge protector where any heavy appliances, such as a furnace, are plugged into a standard wall outlet, to automatically turn off your system if there’s a increase in the line voltage. Also, don’t touch any electrical components, and ask for a professional’s help if you do not regularly use surge protectors.
- Make Sure Everything is Anchored
Confirm your outside cooling equipment is installed on a concrete pad and securely fastened to avoid the equipment from being launched in the air or washing away throughout the course of a storm. If your community is prone to hurricanes, use hurricane straps to protect your air conditioning system 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, power off your heating and cooling system and cover the outdoor unit with a tarp. Be sure to remove the tarp and any debris before you turn your unit back on following a storm.
After the storm has passed, ensure the system is safe before turning it back on. First, make sure there are no signs of damage and clean any debris from around the unit. Call D&K Home Services by Enercare for an equipment inspection if there is any damage or flooding to the unit. Once you’ve had the system inspected by a professional, turn the equipment back on right away to help dry the home and limit mold from getting into the equipment or ductwork.
If your system has suffered any damage, check out these suggestions on What To Do If Your Air Conditioning System Experiences Flooding or Hail Damage and then call D & K Home Services and learn about our membership plans to help keep your HVAC system in working order all year long.