Summer can bring severe storms to the Midwest, so it is always good to be prepared. Homeowners need to be prepared with batteries for the flashlights, bottled water, and an emergency kit handy for when severe weather strikes. But it is also very important to prepare your HVAC unit for severe weather. Storm damage to your HVAC system can cause long-term problems, so it is best to prevent them altogether. Here are some tips from the
heating and cooling experts at
Allied Services, Inc. on how to prepare your HVAC system for stormy weather.
1. Protect Outside Unit
Your outside unit is vulnerable to strong winds, hail, and flying debris that can severely damage it. Make sure your outdoor furniture, tools, and activities are secure or put away so that they cannot be blown around in heavy winds. You should also cover your unit to protect it from hail and excessive rainfall.
2. Install a Surge Protector
Lightning can cause severe damage to the electronic devices and appliances in your home, including your HVAC unit. Installing a surge protector will ground the lightning in case it hits your house.
3. Turn Off the System
A surge protector will help in the event of a lightning strike, but it is not 100% guaranteed to prevent electrical damage. Turn off your HVAC system, and unplug all of your appliances and electronics to be even safer.
4. Get Regular Inspections
Regular
HVAC inspections can save you money and headaches in so many ways, but they can also help prepare your system for severe storms. If there is something wrong with your system, even minor storms could make the problem worse. An inspection will catch the problem early and help make your unit run as efficiently as possible. If you live in the
Dayton, OH, area, make Allied Services your first call when storms hit. We have
emergency AC service available 24/7 and guarantee new
AC installation within 48 hours. To ask about our
HVAC services or about installing an air conditioner,
contact us today at
(937) 836-5191.