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Your Guide to Protecting Your HVAC System From Summer Storms

Mark J. Biel • Jul 15, 2019

Thanks to the humidity and hot air that summer brings, frequent thunderstorms are not an unusual occurrence. Thunderstorms can cause power outages in the areas in which they occur, and unfortunately these outages can cause damage to your electronics. This means that your HVAC system is vulnerable as well. Thankfully, there are ways you can prevent your system from sustaining damage from storms.

In this post, plumbing repair experts from R.A. Biel Plumbing & Heating provide tips for protecting your HVAC system from summer storms.

Turn Off Your HVAC System’s Power At the Circuit Breaker Box

At the first sign of a storm, no matter how minor it may seem, you should turn your air conditioner’s power off immediately. That way, you can protect its electrical components from any power surge that may occur. Whether your air conditioner is a window unit, a portable model or some other type, unplug it from the wall.

Check Your Backup Generator

According to new air conditioning installation pros, making sure your backup generator works is another thing you need to do before a storm. That way if your neighborhood loses power, you’ll have backup electricity until it’s restored. If you haven’t used it in a long time, consider getting a replacement as it may be faulty.

Cover Your Outdoor Unit

Your outdoor HVAC unit is the most vulnerable system component during a thunderstorm due to blowing debris. To protect it, turn it off and secure a tarp over it. Remove any debris you find from around the unit as well to prevent it from being blown into it.

Check Your System Before Turning It On

Once the storm has passed, avoid turning on your HVAC system right away. First, you need to check the outdoor unit for damage and clear away any debris that may have blown up against it. Be on the lookout for dents and other obvious signs of damage as well. If your unit was damaged during the storm, call an HVAC repair professional for an immediate assessment before using it.

Turn to R.A. Biel Plumbing & Heating for your HVAC maintenance needs. We’re your number one provider of air conditioning and new heating system installation services. Give us a call at (505) 672-7888 or (970) 884-3358. You can also fill out our contact form to get a free estimate on new installations.

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