Aug 13 2008
Hurricane Proofing Your AC System
How does one “Hurricane Proof” their Air Conditioning or Heat Pump Comfort System? If the outdoor unit has been installed in the last several years, it has been a code requirement for it to be physically secured to the concrete pad following the manufacturer’s specifications. These manufacturers’ specs, when followed properly, are engineer certified to provide wind based security up to 150 MPH winds and certainly should keep your outdoor unit anchored. If your unit is older than this and is not secured to your pad, you may want to have a licensed air conditioning contracting firm anchor it for you. .
However, the bigger issue with hurricanes, relative to your AC or Heat Pump System, is really the embedded lightening and electrical surges during these types of storms. When the storm is approaching, it’s a good idea to turn the thermostat down several degrees to “pre-cool” the home below your normal comfort level. As the electrical aspect of the storm gets close, it is then a good practice to turn the AC system off to avoid the surges taking out your compressor or other critical components. The toughest times on AC systems are when they start-up and shut-down and it is much worse when the power level is fluctuating as it is during electrical storms.
Once the second half of the hurricane has passed and the electrical fluctuations of the storm are no longer present, it is safe to turn your thermostat back on, assuming you have power. With the typically high temperatures and humidity during this time of the year, it is important to get your power back up and your AC System running as quickly as possible to avoid any potential mold issues in your home as well. If your electrical power is off for an extended period of time, you may need to have a mold remediation firm come in and check your home and you may want to investigate duct cleaning and possibly adding UV lights to your AC system.
Be sure to contact an Air Flow Designs team member for more information. We are currently serving the Orlando, Tampa, and Jacksonville communities.
Orlando: 321.397.2110. Tampa : 813.961.7887. Jacksonville: 904.398.0831.