If you live in Charleston, you know hurricane season is no joke. Preparing your home is a must, and one critical aspect that often gets overlooked is your HVAC system. Taking some simple steps can help protect your HVAC system from storm damage and ensure it’s ready to keep you comfortable once the storm has passed.
In this blog, our heating and air experts will explore how you can get your HVAC system hurricane-ready.
Get a Professional Check-Up
Before hurricane season ramps up, it’s a good idea to have an HVAC service technician give your system a once-over. Think of it as a wellness check for your home’s air system. Here’s what they’ll do:
- Check Electrical Connections: Loose or frayed wires can be dangerous during a storm.
- Inspect Ductwork: They’ll check for leaks or damages that could worsen with heavy rain or debris.
- Overall System Health: They’ll see if anything needs fixing or replacing to keep your system running smoothly.
Secure Your Outdoor Unit
Your outdoor unit is like the brave soldier of your HVAC system, standing guard outside in all kinds of weather. But during a hurricane, it needs some extra protection:
- Anchor It Down: Secure the unit to a concrete pad with hurricane straps or metal brackets. This helps keep it in place during strong winds.
- Cover It Up: A sturdy, weatherproof cover can protect your unit from flying debris. Just make sure it’s secured so it doesn’t blow away.
- Clear the Area: Remove any loose items around your unit that could become dangerous projectiles in high winds.
Turn Off Your HVAC System
As much as you might want to keep your system running for comfort, it’s safer to turn it off during the storm. This can prevent damage from power surges and flooding. Here’s what to do:
- Shut It Down: Turn off your HVAC system at the thermostat and breaker box.
- Power Off the AC: This helps avoid electrical damage during power fluctuations or outages.
- Protect Electrical Parts: If you can, cover any exposed electrical components to shield them from water.
Use a Surge Protector
Power surges are common during storms and can fry your HVAC system’s electrical parts. Installing a surge protector can help:
- Absorb Excess Voltage: Surge protectors divert excess voltage away from your system, protecting it from damage.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing your system is shielded from electrical surges can give you one less thing to worry about during a storm.
Check Your System After the Storm
Once the storm has passed, don’t just flip the switch and hope for the best. Check your heating and air conditioning system first:
- Look for Damage: Check for visible signs of damage, such as dents, debris, or flooding, around your outdoor unit.
- Check Electrical Connections: Make sure there are no exposed wires or other hazards.
- Get a Professional Check-Up: Have an HVAC technician inspect your system for any hidden damage and make necessary repairs.
Consider Elevating Your Unit
If you’re in a flood-prone area, think about elevating your HVAC unit to keep it safe from floodwaters:
- Minimize Flood Damage: Elevating your unit can protect it from water, reducing the chance of costly repairs or replacements.
- Extend Its Lifespan: Keeping your unit above flood levels can help it last longer and stay operational after severe weather.
Stay Safe and Comfortable with Carolina Comfort Specialists
Preparing your Charleston HVAC system for hurricane season is essential for keeping your home safe and comfortable. By taking these steps, you can minimize the risk of damage and ensure your system is ready to keep you cool and comfortable after the storm.
At Carolina Comfort Specialists, our HVAC contractors are here to help you with all your HVAC needs, from pre-storm inspections to post-storm repairs. If you require reliable HVAC services in the Greater Charleston, South Carolina, area, contact us today.
