We may pull in revenue from the products useable on this page and take part in affiliate program . larn More ›
hurricane and other strong storms can wreak havoc on your property , from big businessman outages and implosion therapy to terms result from fall trees and blowing debris . Storms can also importantly damage HVAC system if householder do n’t take proper precautions before and during a storm , which can conduct to a major inconvenience and costly repairs .
HVAC unit of measurement are particularly susceptible to a mountain chain of storm impacts . Heavy rainwater and flooding , for example , can cause supernumerary piss to accumulate around an outdoor HVAC building block , which can go to severe damage to the electrical components or even an electric flak . While verbatim lightning strike are unlikely , a nearby lightning strike can cause a surge in the power supply that can overcharge the HVAC system ’s circuitry and shut out it down . at long last , hail and fly debris due to strong current of air can damage the unit of measurement as well .
Photo: Catherine McQueen/Moment via Getty Images
Whether you live in anarea prostrate to hurricanesor just the average electric storm , it ’s of import to take the take after steps before , during , and after a tempest to protect your HVAC scheme from the elements .
What to Do Before and During a Rainstorm or Thunderstorm
HVAC systemsare not design to operate during a major storm . While it might be temporarily uncomfortable in the house without the AC on , it ’s necessary to turn over off your HVAC organization to safeguard it in the prospicient run .
“ Protecting your HVAC system during a storm is as round-eyed as shut the organization off at the breaker and covering the outside portion of your equipment , ” says Ben Baca , implementation director and HVAC subject matter expert atSmartAC.com . Make certain all the surf are off : schism - type system typically have two breakers ( one for the air manager or furnace and one for the AC or capacitor ) , while packaged units have one or two surf , and boilers have a individual surf .
“ Running an air conditioner while it is obstructed or covered can severely damage compressors and abbreviate the lifespan of your equipment , ” says Baca . “ Also , attempting to operate a furnace or kettle with a block or broken flue pipe pipage can have serious consequences , including personal harm or last to you or your folk . ” to boot , if you do n’t take precautions , the lead equipment casualty may not be covered by the producer ’s guarantee , which could run to a very costly task after the storm .
Photo: Witthaya Prasongsin/Moment via Getty Images. lOvE lOvE
It is safe , however , to leave your HVAC system running during a rainstorm without lightning . Just check that to check that the area around the outdoor unit is not filled with standing water . If the unit gets flooded , then turn it off immediately using the electric dialog box inside your menage , and have it inspect by a professional before turning it back on .
If you have a window AC social unit , unplug itduring a thunderstormto forfend wrong . A power upsurge could melt the spark plug and electric wall socket on your unit and ruin the circuitry .
Here are some ways to fix your HVAC system even before a storm get in :
Photo: Walmart
How to Prepare Your HVAC Unit Before a Hurricane
While you’re able to wait to bend off the HVAC system during a distinctive thunderstorm , it ’s imperative to take several steps before a hurricane arrives since the wrong could be exponentially bad . In addition to likely lightning issues , a hurricane can land major implosion therapy , high winds , and flying detritus .
If you have a window AC unit of measurement , unplug it and remove it from the window before the hurricane begins so you could conclude the window completely . Plus , stiff fart can blow a window AC out of place and damage the unit , not to mention your window and nearby holding inside . If you are ineffectual to move out the unit , buy a blanket with strap to protect it .
Assessing the Situation After a Storm
While you might be eager to get your HVAC system back up and running right after the tempest passes , it ’s imperative that you first assess any possible damage . Look for dents ; easy , disconnected , or melted wire ; an exploded electrical condenser , a stumble circumference breaker ; an unresponsive thermostat ; or junk lodged in the system of rules .
Make note of any unusual smells or sounds and whether other electronics throughout the dwelling are damage . If yoususpect a gas leakor see exposed wires , evacuate your home immediately and call hand brake services for assist .
Baca recommend see to it that any coverings or obstruction are take away from the outdoor equipment before restarting the system . “ Visually audit the furnace or boiler flue or vent pipes to insure they are vindicated and completely intact , ” he says .
Do n’t take a risk by trying to repair the building block yourself after violent storm harm . “ If you are incertain about the condition of your HVAC system after a violent storm or unable to inspect it yourself , it ’s always a safe thought to have the systemprofessionally scrutinize , ” says Baca .
Steps You Can Take All Year Long
Do n’t get caught unprepared next meter severe atmospheric condition strikes . fortuitously , there are actions you may take throughout the year to stay ready for the next storm .
Baca always advise client to have regular preventive maintenance and safety checkups . “ You should have your arrangement professionally scrutinize or tune up at least once per calendar year , ” he says . Regular inspections and alimony by a professional person can help key out and come up to any problems with the system before severe weather arrives .
Invest in asmart thermostatso you’re able to manage your HVAC organization , whether home or not , when a storm arrives . Protect air vents from water and dust terms by install protective covers or grilles to the outdoor units . Keep nearby Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree and other vegetation dress throughout the year . Finally , consider investing in a backup power germ , such as agenerator .
Everything You Need for a Lush and Healthy Lawn
Keeping your supergrass green and your plants thriving does n’t just take a green thumb — it starts with the right tools and supplies .
