How Do You Prepare HVAC Equipment for a Storm
When a storm is coming, make sure your heating and cooling equipment is ready with these tips from Broad Ripple Service Experts.
- Protect Your System from the Surge
Purchase a high-quality surge protector where any heavy appliances, such as a furnace, are plugged into a standard wall outlet, to automatically turn off your equipment if there’s a increase in the line voltage. Also, never to touch any electrical components, and ask for an expert’s help if you are not familiar with using surge protectors.
- Make Sure Everything is Anchored
Confirm your outside cooling equipment is installed on a concrete pad and safely secured to avoid the equipment from being launched in the air or washing away in a storm. If your area is prone to hurricanes, use hurricane straps to project your equipment from high winds.
- Cover Your Equipment (If Possible)
The welfare of you and your family should come first, but if time permits, power off your HVAC system and cover the outdoor equipment with a tarp. You must remove the tarp and any debris before you turn your equipment back on following a storm.
Once the storm has passed, make sure the system is safe before powering it back on. First, confirm there are no signs of damage and clean any debris from around the equipment. Call Broad Ripple Service Experts for an inspection if there is any damage or flooding to the equipment. Once you’ve had the system inspected by a professional, turn the equipment back on as soon as possible to help dry the home and prevent mold from getting into the equipment or ductwork.
If your system 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 Broad Ripple and learn about our membership plans to help keep your heating and cooling equipment in working order all year long.