Can A Storm Damage My HVAC Unit?

Are you experiencing HVAC problems after a heavy storm? You may find that your air conditioner isn’t turning on or your system produces a foul odor in your home. Your outdoor HVAC system may have suffered damage from heavy winds or debris.

Getting your AC unit maintenanced after a storm is always a good idea, but you can also prevent your unit from harm before the storm hits. For this hurricane season, Air Tech of Katy wants to share with our clients three ways they can protect their outdoor HVAC units from extreme weather.

Turn Off Your AC Unit

Once you hear that a hurricane is passing through your area, turn off your air conditioning system. This will protect your unit from any power surges that can come during the storm. Power surges are dangerous as they can start electrical fires that could spread to your home. Keep you and your family safe from danger by ensuring your unit is off before a storm rolls in.

Cover Your Outdoor Unit

Your outdoor unit is just as important as your indoor unit. When a storm hits your area, your outdoor unit is vulnerable to the weather and any damages that may come from it. Some HVAC damage that may come from a hurricane include:

• Damaged refrigerant lines
• Water surrounding or submerging your condenser
• A clogged condenser from debris like twigs or rocks
• Shorted circuits from a damaged motor or fan

These damages can be very harmful as they can start electrical fires or create unpleasant odors and noises in your air conditioning. Prevent these problems by protecting your outdoor unit before the storm arrives.

You can cover your outdoor unit with proper weatherproof material. This could include a specifically designed vinyl condenser cover or a tarp that you can put over your outdoor unit.

For extra measures, you can add a metal or wood frame to the unit. This will protect it from letting debris enter or hit your AC system. You can ask an HVAC professional what kind of cover would be best for your outdoor unit when you schedule your next air conditioning maintenance service.

Secure And Strap Down Any Outdoor Furniture

During heavy storms, you can never expect what the strong winds may pick up.

If you have large outdoor furniture or loose items in your yard, secure them before they become hazardous debris for your outdoor system. Clear out any tools or children’s or pet’s toys that could act as flying projectiles in your yard. Also, make sure that your furniture is out of harm’s way and planted where it won’t topple over on your outdoor unit. Finally, strap down your outdoor air conditioning unit so it’s protected from heavy winds.

Take these simple steps and you’ll find less damage in your yard when the weather clears.

Trusted AC Repair With Air Tech Of Katy

If you’re looking for professional Katy AC repair or have any concerns this hurricane season, contact Air Tech of Katy! Our team would love to help clients new and returning prepare for the harsh weather so they can keep their cooling systems running after the storm passes. Schedule an appointment with us today!