How Do You Prepare HVAC Equipment for a Storm
When a storm is coming, make sure your heating and cooling equipment is prepared with these tips from Norrell Service Experts.
- Protect Your System from the Surge
Invest in a high-quality surge protector where any heavy appliances, like a furnace, are plugged into a common wall outlet, to automatically shut down your system if there’s a spike in the line voltage. Also, do not 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 outdoor equipment is installed on a concrete pad and securely fastened to avoid the equipment from being thrown in the air or washing away in 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 safety of you and your family should come first, but if time allows, 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 unit back on following a storm.
When the storm has passed, make sure the system is safe before turning it back on. First, confirm there are no indications of damage and clean any debris from around the equipment. Call Norrell Service Experts for an inspection if there is any damage or flooding to the system. Once you’ve had the system inspected by a professional, turn the heating and cooling system back on as soon as possible to help dry the home and avoid mold from getting into the unit or ductwork.
If your equipment 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 Norrell and learn about our membership plans to help keep your heating and cooling equipment in working order all year long.