It’s that time of year again when storms start rolling in, and we all worry about the potential damage they could do to our homes. As anyone who has lived through a hurricane can attest, strong winds and driving rain can cause a lot of damage to homes and businesses. One of the most vulnerable parts of any building is the HVAC system. Protecting your HVAC unit from damage during a storm is important to avoid costly repairs.
1. Ensure System Is Properly Grounded
One of the most important things you can do to protect your HVAC system from storm damage is to ensure that it is properly grounded. Lightning is one of the most common causes of HVAC damage, and a well-grounded system will be much less likely to be struck by lightning.
There are a few different ways to ground your system, but one of the most effective is to install a grounding rod. This will provide a direct path for the electricity to flow, preventing it from damaging your system. You should also ensure that your HVAC contractor knows the importance of grounding and has experience doing it.
2. Invest in a Good Surge Protector
Investing in a good surge protector is one of the most important things you can do to protect your HVAC system from damage during a storm. Surge protectors are designed to absorb and redirect excess electricity, which can help prevent damage to your equipment.
When choosing a surge protector, be sure to select one that is rated for the power your HVAC system uses. You should also consider choosing a surge protector with an automatic shut-off feature, which will help prevent further damage if a power surge does occur. Taking these precautions can help keep your HVAC system running smoothly during even the strongest storms.
3. Keep Trees Trimmed
High winds can cause all sorts of damage to your home, and your HVAC system is no exception. Loose branches can easily become lodged in the coils or fans, causing the unit to overheat and potentially break down. In addition, flying debris can break windows and damage the unit’s exterior, making it more susceptible to weather damage. It’s important to keep trees trimmed and away from the house. If possible, remove any loose branches or debris from around the HVAC unit.
4. Invest in Quality Storm Shutters and Panels
Investing in quality storm shutters or panels is one way to protect your home from storm damage. Shutters can be placed over windows and doors to prevent wind and debris from entering your home, and panels can be used to cover vents and other openings. In addition, shutters and panels can help reduce noise levels during a storm.
5. Turn Off Your HVAC During a Power Outage
If you lose power during a storm, turn off your HVAC system to prevent any damage caused by a power surge when power is restored. In addition, it is a good idea to have a backup plan in case of an extended power outage. A generator can help ensure that essential systems like the HVAC remain operational during and after a storm.
6. Have Your HVAC System Inspected by a Professional
It’s important to have your HVAC system inspected by a professional regularly to reduce the risk of storm-related damage. A trained technician will be able to identify potential weak points and take steps to reinforce them.
In addition, to help prevent damage to your HVAC system during a storm, it is important to have the system inspected by a professional after the storm has passed. A professional can identify potential problems and make repairs before they lead to more serious issues. At R.J. Groner Inc. in Monroe, we are experts in HVAC installation, maintenance, and repair.
Rely on the Experts
As any homeowner knows, the comfort of your home depends on a working HVAC system. Unfortunately, HVAC systems are also vulnerable to damage from severe weather. High winds can break windows and tear off roofing, allowing water to enter the home and ruin insulation, drywall, and electrical components. Flying debris can also damage outside units, and power outages prevent the system from running altogether. Therefore, it’s important to take these basic precautions to protect your HVAC system during a storm. R.J. Groner Inc. offers a wide range of services in heating and cooling, central air conditioning, and commercial HVAC. We also perform plumbing work as well. Contact us today for more information.
