Hurricane season always seems to be just around the corner in Florida. As a result, it’s never a bad time to review the steps you should take to safeguard your residential or commercial property from inclement weather. One common error we see homeowners and business owners make is to overlook their HVAC systems as they make preparations. Below, our team at Certified Climate Control is providing a brief HVAC hurricane preparation guide so that you know exactly what to do before, during, and after a storm to avoid extensive disruptions.
First and foremost, we recommend contacting the local team at CCC to conduct a professional inspection as part of your hurricane preparation procedures. We will take the time to pinpoint and remedy any vulnerabilities in your system that would otherwise be made worse by strong winds and downpours. We may also assist with elevating your system to limit the potential for water damage.
As another preparatory step in advance of a hurricane, you’ll want to securely anchor your unit and cover it with a dedicated cover or tarp, which helps prevent moisture and debris from making its way into the delicate internal components. Then, clear the surrounding area to minimize the risk of damage. For example, branches and loose objects that could hit the unit when strong winds come your way need to be removed.
When you get a warning that a storm is approaching, it’s time to take additional measures. Begin by turning off your HVAC system and circuit breakers. This step is necessary to protect your system from damage that could be caused by power surges or flooding. As a result, it can both limit the risk of fire and help keep your investment safe.
Once this step is taken, do not go outdoors to check on your unit. Keep an eye on the progress of the storm and adhere to the advice of the local authorities, making your personal safety your main priority.
After the storm has passed and you have received the all-clear to return outside, take a close look at your HVAC system for evidence of any damage. Problems to look out for include water infiltration and physical damage caused by flying debris. If you suspect that damage has occurred, be sure to document it for insurance purposes. Then, reach out to CCC for a thorough post-storm inspection right away. We will assess the extent of the problem, clean the system, and restore its functionality.
At CCC, we understand that the process of preparing for hurricane season and recovering after a severe storm can feel overwhelming. We’re here to take care of some of the most challenging aspects of preparing your HVAC system for a hurricane and ensuring it is fully functional following inclement weather. Contact us today to start benefiting from our professional guidance and detailed inspections!