Preparing Your HVAC System for Hurricane Season

Before the Storm

Secure Your Outdoor Unit

Your condenser unit is the most vulnerable part of your HVAC system during a hurricane. While it’s designed to withstand some weather, flying debris is the real threat.

• Clear the area around your unit of any loose objects that could become projectiles
• Don’t cover the unit with a tarp, it can trap moisture and cause more harm than good
• Consider hurricane straps if your unit isn’t already bolted to its pad
• Turn off the system at the thermostat and the breaker before the storm arrives

Document Your System

Take photos of your outdoor unit, indoor air handler, and thermostat settings before storm season. If your system is damaged, this documentation helps with insurance claims and speeds up the repair process.

Trim Surrounding Trees

Dead branches and overhanging limbs near your outdoor unit are a major risk. Have them trimmed well before hurricane season. Tree services are booked solid once a storm is approaching.

During the Storm

Keep your HVAC system off throughout the storm. Power surges and fluctuations during a hurricane can damage electrical components. Don’t turn it back on until power has been fully restored and stable.

After the Storm

Inspect Before Restarting

Before turning your AC back on, check the outdoor unit for visible damage:

• Is the unit still level on its pad?
• Are the refrigerant lines intact?
• Is there standing water around the base?
• Are the fins bent or clogged with debris?

Clear Debris Carefully

Remove leaves, branches, and debris from around and on top of the unit. Be gentle with the aluminum fins. They bend easily and bent fins restrict airflow.

When to Call a Professional

If your unit was submerged in flood water, moved from its pad, or has any visible damage to the refrigerant lines, do NOT attempt to restart it. Call a professional for inspection first. Running a damaged system can cause compressor failure. A repair that costs thousands.

Check Your Ductwork

High winds can damage roof-mounted ductwork or dislodge connections in the attic. If your system runs but certain rooms aren’t cooling, disconnected ducts may be the cause.