Are Seasonal Storms Heading Your Way? 3 Tips To Protect Your Air Conditioning System From Damage
The air conditioning system installed in your home helps keep you cool when the temperatures are rising. While seasonal storms may help to cool things off for a bit, you also need to be aware that high winds, lightning, and the potential for flooding can all generate conditions that are hazardous to your HVAC system. When you know that storm season is imminent, use these tips to protect your home's air conditioning system from major damage.
Secure Outdoor Equipment
The outdoor portion of your unit should always be installed on a sturdy concrete pad that allows it to be anchored to the surface. However, older units may have come loose from the anchoring system. As part of your AC maintenance, check to make sure that the outdoor unit is securely fastened to the pad and tighten any bolts that have come loose. If you live in an area where tornadoes or hurricanes are prone to happen, then you can also use straps designed for the purpose of holding outdoor units down.
Protect It From Power Surges
Like any other technological piece of equipment, the HVAC system is vulnerable to power surges that commonly occur during storms. Make sure that any components that plug into the outlets are protected using high-quality surge protectors. These will help to shut the power off to the unit if you are not home when the storm occurs. If you are home when a storm is coming, then shut the power off to the air conditioning system at the main circuit breaker. Leave it off until the storm has passed. Keep in mind that you should never work with the electrical components of your unit if you are unfamiliar with them. Instead, ask the technician how to perform the shut-off tasks during the routine air conditioner maintenance services.
Inspect For Damage Once the Storm Passes
After the storm is over, you are then ready to begin the process of turning back on the air conditioning system so that you can inspect it for damage. Watch out for signs that you need air conditioning repair services such as having a unit that refuses to start up or that makes strange noises when it does. Running a faulty air conditioning unit can continue to generate damage, so always get small issues repaired as soon as possible.
Every season brings changes in the weather that affect how your house's HVAC system performs. By taking a few preventative steps to reduce the possibility of damage, you can look forward to your unit working for many years.