While Dayton may not need to maintain the level of emergency preparedness that coastal residents do, the possibility of extensive damage to our homes means we all have to be on high alert whenever storms approach. One piece of equipment that you should take extra care to protect is your HVAC system.
Read on and learn what to do about HVAC emergency preparedness.
Checklist for HVAC Preparedness
1. Clear everything away from the condenser. Move furniture, tools, decorations or garden structures away so that they cannot blow into the condenser and cause damage. Cut away any overhanging limbs that might fall on the condenser.
2. If there are areas devoid of ground cover near the condenser, you may want to wet them down before a storm arrives, to prevent dirt from blowing into the condenser.
3. If the condenser is located in a low-lying area that is subject to flooding, consider moving it to higher ground. This can be expensive, but may be preferable to replacing the condenser. Also, look into flood insurance.
4. If you feel the need to cover the condenser, buy a cover designed specifically for HVAC condensers. It may be a good idea to take it off once the storm passes, as moisture can collect in a covered condenser, or animals may take up residence there during the winter.
5. Run the air conditioner or heater to cool or heat the house prior to the arrival of the storm, then turn it off to prevent a power surge. You might also flip the breaker in case there is a power surge in the house. It’s a good idea to invest in a surge protector prior to a storm.
6. Once the storm has passed, if you don’t think your HVAC system was affected, turn it on and listen and look for signs that it isn’t operating properly. Turn it off and call your HVAC consultant if you think it has been damaged. Don’t turn the HVAC system on if it has flooded.
For more on HVAC emergency preparedness, contact Ace Hardware Home Services of Dayton.
