How Do You Prepare HVAC Equipment for a Storm
When a storm is approaching, make sure your heating and cooling equipment is ready with these tips from Rob's Albertan Service Experts.
- Protect Your System from the Surge
Invest in a high-quality surge protector where any heavy appliances, for example, a furnace, are plugged into a common wall outlet, to automatically shut down your HVAC appliances 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 are not familiar with using surge protectors.
- Make Sure Everything is Anchored
Confirm your outdoor equipment is installed on a concrete pad and properly secured to avoid the equipment from being launched in the air or washing away during a storm. If your region is prone to hurricanes, use hurricane straps to protect your air conditioning system from high winds.
- Cover Your Equipment (If Possible)
The welfare of you and your family should be priority, but if time will let you, turn off your heating and cooling system and cover the outdoor unit with a tarp. Make sure you remove the tarp and any debris before you turn your system back on following a storm.
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 Rob's Albertan Service Experts for an equipment inspection if there is any damage or flooding to the equipment. Once you’ve had an inspection by a professional, turn the HVAC system back on right away to help dry the home and prevent mold from getting into the system or ductwork.
If your air conditioner has suffered any damage, check out these recommendations on What To Do If Your Air Conditioning System Experiences Flooding or Hail Damage and then call Rob's Albertan and learn about our membership plans to help keep your heating and cooling equipment in working order all year long.