Your HVAC system is one of the most important and most expensive appliances in your home, so it only makes sense to protect it. Storm season is coming up here in Florida, there are a few things you can do to make sure your system is safe this season whether it be a hurricane or just a thunderstorm.
Protecting your A/C against Power Outages
- Lightning Arrestors: These are an effective way to protect against a high voltage surge. they regulate the voltage that is given to your HVAC system by shorting to ground voltages above a safe gateway or blocking it entirely.
- Time Delay Relay: Protects the AC against short cycling of the compressor from power interruption and thermostat problems.
Equipment Protection
- Weather Legs: Lower your condensing coil making cleaning easier, coils clogged with dirt and grass/mulch can block airflow causing higher electric bills and early corrosion of the coil.
- Float Switches: Used to sense the amount of liquid in the system. They are designed to shut off the system if the main drain is plugged and condensate is backed up high enough. They can also be placed in the drain pan and will shut the system down if water gets to a certain level in the pan, so there is no overflow that can damage your ceiling or floor. Float switches in the drain will shut it down if any water is detected at all protecting from any potential flooding.
What to do before a Hurricane
- Turn off the system completely, you will avoid burning out the compressor when your electricity comes back on.
- For outdoor A/C units, the recommendation would be to either cage the unit or
secure them with Hurricane Straps. Do not place a tarp over the unit while it is on, otherwise it may overheat or burn up the compressor. - Trim any trees or bushes near the unit, and search the area for any lose cables or debris that could interfere with or damage the unit..
After a Hurricane
- Do not turn your A/C unit back on unless you or a technician has inspected the unit. if the unit has been damaged, a burned compressor or blown circuits could damage the unit even further. Visually inspect the unit for any dings, fallen debris or dents that may prevent the unit from working properly.
- If your A/C equipment is in fact damaged and unusable at the time, then you may consider renting a portable unit until yours is working properly.
- Don’t hesitate to have the unit inspected by an HVAC professional if you are unsure about anything having to do with your A/C unit.
