As hurricane season approaches in Houston, your HVAC system needs special attention. These powerful storms can cause significant damage to outdoor units, disrupt power, and even lead to long-term issues if your system isn’t properly secured. Taking a few steps to prepare your HVAC for the season can save you from expensive repairs and keep your home cool and comfortable, even in the face of unpredictable weather. From securing the outdoor unit to installing surge protectors, making these preparations is essential to ensure your system survives the storm. Let’s Irob-Tech LLC explore how you can hurricane-proof your HVAC and avoid common issues during this challenging time.
Secure the Outdoor Unit
One of the most vulnerable parts of your HVAC system during a hurricane is the outdoor unit. High winds, flying debris, and even heavy rainfall can impact the stability and safety of this unit. Securing it in place can significantly reduce the risk of damage.
Start by ensuring that the unit is bolted securely to a concrete slab or another stable surface. If your unit is on an elevated platform, check that it’s firmly attached. There are also specialized hurricane straps and braces designed to anchor HVAC systems, which can be installed by a professional. Securing the outdoor unit not only helps prevent movement during high winds but also minimizes the chances of the unit being struck by falling objects or blown away.
Additionally, clearing the surrounding area of loose objects like patio furniture, potted plants, and other yard equipment can prevent these items from becoming projectiles that could harm the outdoor unit. A well-anchored and cleared space is essential for maintaining the integrity of your HVAC system through storm conditions.
Install Surge Protectors
Power surges are common during hurricanes, especially when lightning strikes or electrical systems are damaged. These surges can cause significant harm to HVAC systems, frying electrical components and rendering the system inoperable. Installing surge protectors is a crucial step in shielding your HVAC system from electrical damage during a storm.
A surge protector works by diverting excess voltage away from the system, protecting the internal electronics and preventing overheating or short-circuiting. This small investment can save you from having to replace expensive components, such as circuit boards or compressors, which are often damaged by power surges. While a whole-home surge protector is a great option, individual surge protectors for specific appliances, like your HVAC system, offer another layer of security.
By installing surge protectors, you safeguard your system from electrical malfunctions and ensure it can function properly once the storm passes and the power is restored.
Clean and Maintain
Routine maintenance is always important for any HVAC system, but it becomes even more critical before hurricane season. A system that is clean and in good working order is better equipped to handle stress and sudden changes in operation, such as power outages or being shut off due to storm threats.
Schedule a professional tune-up before the hurricane season begins. During this checkup, your HVAC technician will inspect the system for any underlying issues, such as leaks, clogs, or worn-out parts, and make any necessary repairs. Additionally, they will clean the coils, filters, and other components, ensuring the system is running at peak efficiency.
A well-maintained system can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems during a storm. It also ensures that your HVAC is ready to provide reliable cooling when you need it most.
Cover the Unit
During a hurricane, flying debris can cause physical damage to your HVAC unit. While securing the unit helps prevent it from being knocked over or shifted, covering it offers an extra layer of protection against debris.
Many homeowners use specially designed covers made from durable materials like vinyl or reinforced fabric to cover the outdoor unit before a storm hits. These covers shield the system from branches, leaves, and other objects that could damage the fins, fan blades, or other critical components. Just make sure to remove the cover as soon as it’s safe after the storm, as leaving it on too long can trap moisture, potentially leading to rust and mildew.
If you don’t have a specialized cover, a heavy-duty tarp tied securely around the unit can serve as a temporary solution. Protecting the unit from physical damage is a simple but effective way to reduce post-storm repairs.
Check for Flooding Risks
In flood-prone areas of Houston, HVAC units are particularly susceptible to water damage. Prolonged exposure to standing water can cause significant damage to your HVAC system, especially if water enters the unit’s electrical components.
If your outdoor unit is situated in an area that tends to flood, consider raising it on an elevated platform to prevent water from reaching critical parts of the system. In some cases, installing a flood barrier around the unit can help keep water at bay. Consult with an HVAC professional to determine the best course of action for your specific location.
Turn Off the System Before the Storm
One of the best ways to protect your HVAC system during a hurricane is to turn it off before the storm arrives. Operating the system during high winds, rain, and fluctuating power can cause damage, particularly if there’s a power outage or surge.
Shut down the entire system, including the indoor and outdoor units, to prevent damage. If you lose power, turning off the system will also reduce the risk of harm when the electricity returns. After the storm passes, you can inspect the unit for any visible damage before turning it back on.
By taking this precaution, you’ll reduce the likelihood of internal damage and extend the life of your HVAC system.
Check the Air Filters
One of the simplest yet most important tasks to prepare your HVAC system for hurricane season is checking the air filters. Dirty or clogged filters can reduce airflow and force your system to work harder, which decreases efficiency and may cause overheating. During hurricane season, when the system might need to work under challenging conditions, ensuring optimal airflow is crucial for its performance.
Before the storm season starts, inspect the air filters in both the furnace and air conditioning units. If they’re dirty, replace them with clean ones, as a fresh filter will help the system operate more smoothly. A clean filter also helps maintain indoor air quality, which may become more important if windows and doors need to remain closed due to extreme weather conditions. Regularly changing your filters every 30 to 90 days will ensure your system is running efficiently throughout the hurricane season.
Inspect Ductwork for Leaks
Ductwork is a critical part of your HVAC system, responsible for distributing air throughout your home. If there are leaks or damage in your ductwork, your system’s efficiency can be severely compromised, leading to increased energy usage and reduced cooling capacity. As hurricane season approaches, it’s essential to inspect your ductwork for leaks or blockages that may hinder airflow.
Start by visually inspecting any accessible ductwork in your home, looking for signs of damage, such as holes, gaps, or disconnected sections. A professional HVAC technician can also conduct a more thorough inspection, using tools like smoke pencils or duct leakage testers to identify problem areas. Sealing leaks with mastic or metal-backed tape can help improve the system’s efficiency, ensuring cool air reaches every part of your home during the storm season.
By addressing any ductwork issues before hurricane season, you’ll ensure your HVAC system performs optimally, even during high-stress conditions.
Ensure Proper Drainage
Hurricanes often bring heavy rain, and ensuring proper drainage around your HVAC system is vital to prevent water damage. HVAC units, particularly outdoor air conditioning systems, rely on drainage lines to remove excess moisture that accumulates during operation. If these lines become clogged, water can back up into the system, leading to damage or mold growth.
Before hurricane season, check that your drainage lines are clear and functioning properly. This includes the condensate drain line inside the home, which removes water that collects during the cooling process. Regularly clean or flush the drain line to prevent blockages caused by dirt, debris, or algae growth. Additionally, ensure the outdoor unit is placed in a well-drained area, preferably on an elevated surface, to prevent water from pooling around it during heavy rains.
Proper drainage is essential for keeping your HVAC system safe and operational throughout hurricane season.
Backup Power Options
During hurricanes, power outages are common and can last for hours or even days. A reliable HVAC system is crucial to maintaining a comfortable indoor environment, especially in Houston’s hot and humid climate. One way to ensure your HVAC system stays operational during a power outage is to invest in backup power options.
Generators are a popular choice for providing backup power to HVAC systems during emergencies. A whole-home generator can automatically restore power to your HVAC and other critical systems when the electricity goes out, keeping your home comfortable even during extended outages. Alternatively, portable generators can power essential devices, including smaller HVAC units or fans, on a temporary basis.
Before hurricane season starts, consider your backup power needs and explore options that best suit your home. Ensuring you have a power source available for your HVAC system can make a significant difference in maintaining comfort and safety during a storm.
Inspect Electrical Connections
The electrical components of your HVAC system are particularly vulnerable to damage during hurricanes due to power surges, lightning strikes, and heavy rain. Ensuring that your system’s electrical connections are in good shape before the storm season is essential to prevent short-circuiting, fires, or complete system failure.
Start by having a licensed HVAC professional inspect the electrical wiring and connections in both your indoor and outdoor units. They will check for any frayed or damaged wires, loose connections, or signs of corrosion, which can lead to malfunctions during a storm. In some cases, upgrading electrical components or adding surge protection may be necessary to better protect your system from power surges caused by storms.
By maintaining secure electrical connections, you reduce the risk of sudden failures and ensure your system is more resilient during hurricane season.
Know When to Shut Off the System
One of the most critical steps in protecting your HVAC system during a hurricane is knowing when to turn it off. Operating the system during extreme weather conditions, especially when strong winds, rain, and fluctuating power are present, can put undue stress on the unit and cause permanent damage.
It’s generally advisable to turn off your HVAC system as soon as a hurricane warning is issued or when severe weather is imminent. This includes both the indoor and outdoor components of the system. By turning it off, you prevent the risk of electrical malfunctions and ensure that the system isn’t damaged by power surges or debris. Once the storm has passed, inspect the unit for any visible damage before restarting it. If you’re unsure about the condition of the system, it’s a good idea to have a professional HVAC service first.
Knowing when to shut off your system can prevent costly repairs and extend the life of your HVAC equipment.
Schedule Post-Storm Inspection
After a hurricane has passed, it’s essential to inspect your HVAC system for any signs of damage, even if everything appears to be working normally. Hurricanes can cause hidden damage, such as electrical issues, water infiltration, or structural problems, which may not be immediately noticeable but can affect long-term performance.
Start by doing a visual inspection of the outdoor unit. Look for any debris that may have accumulated around or inside the unit, and check for visible signs of damage, such as bent fan blades or broken panels. Additionally, inspect the surrounding area for flooding, as water can seep into the system and cause electrical issues.
For a more thorough check, consider scheduling a post-storm inspection with a professional HVAC technician. They can assess the system for any internal issues, clean the coils, check refrigerant levels, and ensure that the electrical components are functioning properly. This proactive step can prevent minor issues from escalating into major problems and ensure your HVAC system continues to operate efficiently after the storm season.
Conclusion
Preparing your HVAC system for Houston’s hurricane season might seem like a small task, but it can make a big difference when severe weather hits. Securing the unit, ensuring proper drainage, and installing surge protectors are just a few steps that can safeguard your system from storm damage. It’s also important to perform regular maintenance, inspect the ductwork, and plan for backup power options to avoid unexpected outages. By being proactive, you’ll help your HVAC system withstand the harsh conditions and stay operational throughout the storm season, ensuring peace of mind and comfort for your home, no matter what the weather brings.