The Atlantic hurricane season is active from June to November. The HVAC system becomes vulnerable to damage during the hurricane. The high-speed wind, heavy rain, and flooding are everywhere.
Besides your safety, the HVAC needs some preparation to avoid costly repairs from these damages. Proactive preparation not only prevents damage but also makes sure the HVAC system maintains comfort after the calamity is over.
In this post, I’m going to share how to prepare your HVAC system for the hurricane season.
Understanding the Risks
Learning about potential damages helps prepare you better for the hurricane. Besides the hurricane-force wind and flying debris, this calamity also pose the risk of power surges which can damage the HVAC system. Here are the risks of the HVAC unit associated with hurricanes:
- Physical Damage (to outdoor units)
The strong wind from the hurricane can directly damage the coils and fins in the condenser unit.
If the outdoor AC unit isn’t anchored properly, the strong wind from the hurricane can easily topple it. Besides, there are different kinds of loose objects, such as tree branches and construction materials, that are in the heavy wind. Those can dent, and puncture the external unit.
- Water Damage (from flooding)
If the outdoor unit is in a low spot, flooding can submerge it. If your ductwork is in the basement, it can submerge too. The standing water increases the high moisture and humidity level and contributes to mold and mildew growth.
- Electrical Damage
Hurricanes often cause power surges and fluctuations. It can damage the circuit boards, compressors, and thermostats and eventually cause the HVAC to lose power. Flooding can increase the chance of short circuits and water corrosion in the electrical system is also a possibility.
- Loss of Functionality
All parts of the HVAC system are interconnected. If part of it is damaged enough from the hurricane, it might stop working entirely.
Even if that is not the case, these damages can significantly impact how well the system will continue to operate.
- Long-Term Consequences
Damage from hurricanes can lead to recurring maintenance problems like leaks, corrosion, etc. In some cases, the lifespan will shorten even after repair. The overall value of the property will also be lower as a consequence.
5 Tips to Prepare HVAC System for Hurricane Season
Hurricanes pose a risk to almost every critical infrastructure. Just like other properties, your HVAC needs proper preparation to minimize damage. Additionally, some proactive steps help for faster recovery.
To prepare the HVAC for hurricanes, make sure to follow these steps:
1. Inspect and Secure the Outdoor Unit of Air Conditioning System
During hurricanes and damage tropical storms, the outdoor air conditioning unit is the most vulnerable part of the HVAC system. This is primarily because the unit is directly exposed outside. The unit is also often located at the ground level. So, it is vulnerable to severe damage from storm surges and floods.
The condenser unit’s housing, fan blades, and coils also can’t withstand the strong wind and fast-paced moving objects coming from outside during the hurricane.
Here is how to ready your outdoor AC unit for hurricane season:
- Switch off the power to the unit to prevent damage from surges.
- Fasten the unit with hurricane straps or metal brackets to prevent displacement.
- Shield the unit with a special hurricane-rated cover.
- Clean the surrounding area. Remove loose objects, trim trees, and clear debris around the unit.
- Elevate the unit if possible to protect it from flooding.
2. Clean and Maintain the HVAC System
Regular maintenance ensures all HVAC components are in good working order. Parts like fan motors, compressors, and electrical connections are less likely to be weakened or damaged during a hurricane’s impact.
With a good check-up, a technician can confirm if the unit is secured enough to prevent dislocation. Besides, a clean system will operate more efficiently if there is a need to run the HVAC.
Before the storm,
- Have a professional HVAC technician check the system.
- Clean or replace air filters for proper airflow and reduced strain.
- Clear drain lines to prevent clogs and avoid water damage.
- Check refrigerant levels to ensure an efficient operation.
3. Protect the Air Conditioner Against Power Surges
Power surges are sudden voltage spikes from the source. It can happen from lightning strikes, power outages, fallen lines, power grid switching, etc. during hurricanes. It is harmful to all electronic appliances.
The AC unit’s circuit board mainly suffers from power surges. Other electrical damage like compressor failure and wiring problems are also common.
To protect against power surges,
- Install a whole home or dedicated HVAC surge protector.
- Cool your home 1-2 days before the possibility of erratic power failure when the storm hits. Lower the thermostat settings by four to five degrees during these times.
- Turn the system off at the breaker during the storm.
- Use smart thermostats to remotely control the settings and avoid power surges.
4. Prepare for Flooding
We have already mentioned flooding causes the most water damage in the external unit.
Besides, water can get into the indoor unit and ruin indoor components too. Corrosion of metal parts, contamination with outside materials, compressor, and condenser damage, etc. are also a possibility.
To prepare for flooding,
- Raise the units (both indoor and outdoor) if possible.
- Use waterproof sealants to close gaps around ducts and vents.
- Turn the system off when flooding is imminent.
- Consider getting a sump pump to remove clogged water.
5. Create an Emergency Plan
Some damage is inevitable during hurricanes. Preparations help to lessen the damage as much as possible. Taking some proactive arrangements ensures quick recovery after the storm.
- Save the contact information of HVAC professionals and your insurance company.
- Take photos and document the model and serial number of your system for an insurance claim.
- Learn how to turn off the system properly in an emergency.
- Prepare a kit including tools, a flashlight, and a waterproof container to preserve important documents.
Ready your AC unit for hurricane season! Discover our vibrant infographic with 5 essential tips to prepare your AC for hurricanes [Infographic]
Post-Hurricane HVAC Checklist
Hurricane damage can threaten safety hazards and pose further damage possibility of HVAC components. A thorough checkup after the disaster helps you confirm that your system is in running condition.
Even if your HVAC unit suffers minor damage, it can significantly impact the efficiency, and air quality, and has a possibility for future costly repair. Checking up on the system is important to ensure that is not the case with your HVAC.
Here is a detailed checklist to inspect and restore your HVAC unit after the hurricane passes:
- Turn off the power and wear protective gear.
- Check for gas leaks as a safety precaution if you have a gas-powered system.
- Inspect the outdoor components for physical damage. Clear debris and straighten any bent fins.
- Check if the drain pan is overflowing and the drain line has clogged. Clear them if that’s the case and inspect electrical components.
- Check for debris and flood damage in the ductwork. Test the insulation and treat it accordingly.
- Replace air filters.
- Test thermostats for both heating and AC systems.
- Disinfect the system for mold and bacteria if needed.
- Turn on the power. Watch out for electrical smoke or smell and listen for anything out of the ordinary, especially loud buzzing noises coming from the system.
- Schedule maintenance with nearby professionals for issues like compressor damage or refrigerant leaks.
Conclusion
Proper preparation helps to minimize hurricane damage as well as a faster recovery. So, consider investing in hurricane-related HVAC components so that your system is covered during the disaster. Follow the steps mentioned and stay informed about weather updates to prepare yourself and your HVAC unit better. Always maintain regular maintenance with professionals like Green Leaf Air to keep your system in top condition and resist damage as much as possible.
FAQs
How to prepare your AC system for a hurricane?
The outdoor condenser unit is the most vulnerable during hurricanes. Secure the unit in its spot, use protective covers, and elevate the unit if possible to minimize the damage. You need to follow other general guidelines for preparing HVAC units for stormy weather too to prepare and protect your heating as well as air conditioning units from hurricanes.
Should I turn the AC down before the hurricane?
It’s better to turn down the AC before the storm or hurricane. If the power goes out, your home will heat up naturally. If it is cooler beforehand, it will stay cool for a longer period. The strain on the startup will also be less.
Should you turn off the air conditioner during storm?
It is always best to turn the whole HVAC system off during a storm. Storms and hurricanes involve power surges and lightning strikes which can damage the AC unit and other components of the HVAC. Turn down the heat beforehand to make up for the downtime.
By the way, are you looking for an HVAC system for your home?
Check out Green Leaf Air Store where we have a wide range of residential & commercial HVAC system including: – –
Complete Goodman HVAC System – Trane HVAC system – Heat Pumps – Air Handlers – Gas Furnaces
Besides, for any Air Duct Cleaning, AC installation, AC repair services, call Green Leaf Air to ensure you get the best quotes and satisfying service.
