There’s a lot of confusing information out there about preparing and protecting your AC unit before storms. Much of the confusion lies in the fact that, in Florida, we’re often never sure what kind of storm we’re going to get.

Protecting Your AC Unit Before Thunderstorms

Florida storms can be extremely exciting or absolutely terrifying, and even a little of both. Our rainy season lasts from June till November, and brings lightning, tornadoes, waterspouts, and flooding.

Risks to your home AC system during a thunderstorm primarily involve lightning strikes and flooding.

Lightning strikes

Lightning strikes can fry your AC electrical system, resulting in an expensive replacement. There are two ways to protect it:

  1. Turn off your air conditioner before the storm
  2. Have surge protection installed

Turning off your AC unit in the midst of a sweltering summer storm may seem like a huge sacrifice. However, remember that a lightning strike could result in the need for a complete — and expensive — replacement. You don’t need to turn if off for an extended time, though.

Surge protection is also a good idea for Florida storm seasons. FP&L even offers a SurgeShield service

Flooding

If your home is subject to flooding, your outdoor unit can get damaged by rising water. You can elevate the unit with the help of a professional, and have it installed on a higher concrete pad.

It’s also a good opportunity to reinforce anchoring on the unit.

Protecting Your AC Unit Before Hurricanes

Along with preparing for lightning, tornadoes, and floods as above, you’ll also need to protect your unit from flying debris if there is a hurricane watch.

Hurricane prep

Some advise that you cover your AC unit with a tarp but if you need to evacuate, it will leave the unit vulnerable. Mold and bacteria will grow in the humidity and it may corrode the electrical system.

However, need to remove any potential flying debris from your yard. You should do this to prep for a hurricane, anyway. Patio furniture, loose branches, planters, and other potential projectiles can damage windows, your outdoor AC unit, and even cause death during a hurricane.

Consider boarding it up or having an AC cage installed.

Preparing for Storms

You’ll get several days warning before a hurricane, giving you a chance to cool down your home and stock up on cold drinks.

Should you be ordered to evacuate, throw the breaker on your home. This will help protect all the electrical appliances in your home as well as your AC unit.

In Florida, storms can be a matter of life or death, so error on the side of caution. Your first priority should be the safety of you and your family.

Make an appointment with One Hour Air in Stuart today to help you prep your HVAC system for the next Florida summer storm. We can also get you running again after the skies have finally cleared.