Flooding is a consistent problem throughout much of the state of Florida, including in the Largo area. Heating, ventilation and cooling (HVAC) equipment can end up severely damaged and oftentimes permanently destroyed when flooded. Residents in and around Largo, Florida, need to understand what proactive steps they need to take in order to protect their HVAC equipment against flood-related damage.
Consider Installation Location
A relatively common practice in many residential and commercial structures throughout the United States, including in the Sunshine State, is to place HVAC equipment on the first floor or out of doors directly next to the structure. Oftentimes this type of installation is done out of convenience and with the idea that it saves money.
One of the most important proactive strategies a home or building owner in the Largo area should employ involves in the installation of all HVAC equipment on a higher level of a structure. By moving HVAC equipment to an upper floor, the attic or even (as appropriate) onto the roof, the owner of residential or commercial property reduces the odds that the equipment will be flooded.
While this is easier to accomplish with new construction, it is not an impossible task on existing structures. Of course, the removal of HVAC equipment to a higher level necessitates changes to the plumbing and electrical of a home or building, in the end the fact that the alteration guards against damage to or destruction of HVAC equipment, it can be considered an intelligent investment.
Build a Floodwall
Another proactive strategy that can be employed by the owner of residential or commercial property to protect HVAC equipment from flood damage is the construction of a floodwall. The floodwall needs to be constructed from concrete or masonry block for maximum effectiveness.
Strength and height are the two primary considerations when considering the construction of a floodwall as a means of protecting HVAC equipment. The wall must be strong enough to withstand the forcefulness of water associated with a flood. The height should be above the point of the highest recorded flood level in a particular area.
Both proactive strategies depend on the assistance of professionals to ensure maximum effectiveness in protecting HVAC equipment against flood related damage or destruction.