How Do You Prepare HVAC Equipment for a Storm
When a storm is on its way, make sure your heating and air conditioning equipment is ready with these tips from BW/Cook Service Experts.
- Protect Your System from the Surge
Purchase a high-quality surge protector where any heavy appliances, like a furnace, are plugged into a common wall outlet, to automatically shut off your HVAC appliances if there’s a increase in the line voltage. Also, do not touch any electrical components, and ask for a technician’s help if you are not familiar with using surge protectors.
- Make Sure Everything is Anchored
Confirm your outside A/C equipment is installed on a concrete pad and properly secured to avoid the equipment from being thrown in the air or washing away during a storm. If your region is prone to hurricanes, use hurricane straps to keep your equipment safe from high winds.
- Cover Your Equipment (If Possible)
The well-being of you and your family should come first, but if time will let you, turn off your HVAC system and cover the outdoor unit with a tarp. Make sure you remove the tarp and any debris before you turn your equipment back on following a storm.
After the storm has passed, ensure the system is safe before turning it back on. First, confirm there are no indications of damage and clean any debris from around the unit. Call BW/Cook Service Experts for a system inspection if there is any damage or flooding to the unit. Once you’ve had an inspection by a professional, turn the equipment back on immediately to help dry the home and avoid mold from getting into the unit or ductwork.
If your system 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 BW/Cook and learn about our membership plans to help keep your HVAC equipment in working order all year long.