How to Hurricane-Proof Your HVAC: Tips for Orlando Homeowners
Because most Orlando homeowners are used to hurricane season, they typically know exactly what they need to do to prepare. Throughout Central Florida, countless homeowners secure the furniture, take a look at their evacuation strategies and stock up on non-perishables and water. However, there’s a specific area no Floridian should overlook. The HVAC system gets exposed to the storm. Consequently, it is susceptible to electrical surges and high winds.
Protecting your HVAC system helps you ensure your home remains cool and comfortable. It also saves you from expensive repair bills. Learn more about why it matters and how you can protect your HVAC system before, during and after the storm.
Why It Matters
In Central Florida, the climate includes salt-heavy air and lots of humidity. Within a humid climate, the HVAC system can experience a breakdown over the long haul. Then, when you add hurricane season into the equation, it’s not far-fetched to believe you’ll spend a lot of money on HVAC repairs or replacements (if you don’t protect the system).
By protecting your system, you’ll save money and maintain safety. An HVAC system with an electrical malfunction can quickly become a danger zone.
Pre-Storm Preparation
Taking precautionary steps to protect your HVAC system can do wonders. Your first step involves your outdoor condenser unit. Once you’ve located it, use hurricane straps or brackets to anchor it in place. It’s best to anchor it to concrete. When the winds blow, it’ll stay intact.
Review the system to look for any electrical panels or wiring that look out of place or damaged. If everything looks covered and in place, use waterproof materials to keep everything safe from moisture or water damage. Use a weather-resistant cover on top of the unit. Look around the system for bushes, branches and shrubs that need a trim. Trim the greenery well to keep it from entering the system.
It’s wise to schedule routine AC maintenance services before hurricane season gets started. With a trained professional looking for any potential issues, you’re ensuring that your unit is strong enough to withstand any storm.
During a Storm
It’s important to understand how to protect your system throughout the duration of a storm. The preparation isn’t where it ends. Start by turning the HVAC system off. Hurricanes hold the potential to cause treacherous power surges. Those power surges can lead to a damaged HVAC system. If you can only turn it off at the thermostat, that’s okay. However, if you can, shut down the HVAC system at the breaker.
If you keep your power on throughout the storm, don’t use the air conditioning. Too many negative scenarios can take place like flooding, electricity instability and wind-tossed debris. Sure, it’s uncomfortable to go without your precious AC. Yet, a few hours of discomfort is better than long-term, expensive storm damage. If you have a generator, make sure it’s compatible with your system. A licensed HVAC professional can help you with those logistics.
Post-Storm: The Recovery Process
When you and your household safely make it through the storm, it’s time to begin the recovery process. Inspect your HVAC system to see if there are clear signs of damage. Keep an eye out for any debris or dents in the unit. If there’s flooding around the unit, don’t turn it back on. Call a professional so they can determine the next steps.
Pay attention to the indoor components like the drain pans and ductwork. If you see any water in these areas, address it immediately to avoid the spread of mold and mildew. Too much moisture can wreak havoc on your system’s ability to function well.
If everything looks good after your inspection, consider scheduling a post-storm inspection. Since you’re not a professional, it’s possible to miss a few issues. A trained eye knows exactly what to look for. If you’re not sure if your unit is safe to begin operation again, many companies offer emergency AC repair services. Take advantage of those offerings. You deserve to enjoy peace of mind when you turn on the HVAC system again.
Moving Forward
When hurricane season rolls around, it’s easy to focus on making sure the emergency supplies get stocked. However, you don’t want to look past your HVAC system. It’s so important in the overall function of your home and your comfort. By implementing these steps, you’ll also make sure your system remains in good shape as the Central Floridian climate can do its own damage. Do you need help with your system? If so, contact Greens Energy and schedule emergency AC repair in Orlando today. We have your HVAC system covered with any installation, repair or maintenance needs you have in your home.
