How to Prepare HVAC Equipment for a Storm

How Do You Prepare HVAC Equipment for a Storm? 

When a storm is approaching, make sure your heating and cooling equipment is primed with these recommendations from Stevenson 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 typical wall outlet, to automatically shut off your HVAC appliances if there’s a jump in the line voltage. Also, don’t touch any electrical components, and ask for an expert’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 safely secured 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 keep your equipment safe from high winds. 

  • Cover Your Equipment (If Possible) 

The safety of you and your family should be priority, but if time allows, shut off your HVAC system and cover the outdoor system with a tarp. You must 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, be sure 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 Stevenson Service Experts for an inspection if there is any damage or flooding to the system. Once you’ve had the equipment inspected by a professional, turn the heating and cooling system back on immediately to help dry the home and prevent mold from getting into the unit 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 equipment in working order all year long.