Weathering the Storm: How Proper AC Maintenance Protects Your System

Living in the deep South means homeowners also live with the expectations of severe storms—thunderstorms, tornadoes, and hurricanes are all common during spring, summer, and fall months. These storms bring high winds, heavy rain, and the potential for localized flooding.

Severe storms create the potential for problems with a home’s heating and air conditioning system. Homeowners can prepare ahead of time with professional AC maintenance for potential problems and plan for damage in the aftermath of storms. Preparation and planning will also distinguish between do-it-yourself tasks and tasks that need a professional hand.

Potential Problems: The Importance of AC Maintenance in Stormy Weather

• Lightning that strikes the power grid causes power outages, but it can also damage a home’s wiring and appliances. Both the power grid and a home wiring system have safety features, including the main breaker at the electrical service panel. If the main breaker does not restore power to the air conditioner, check for breakers on the air handler cabinet.
• Heavy rain can overwhelm the outdoor air conditioner condenser. It can also result in localized flooding, dislodging the condenser. The electronic controls are on the upper part of the condenser, but being aware of potential problems can prevent further damage.
• High winds can also push leaves, limbs, and trash around the condenser. The condenser’s function is to transfer/release heat from inside the home to the outdoors, so windblown debris can inhibit heat transfer and cause the system to overheat. A homeowner can remove debris and wash away accumulated pollen and dust from the condenser’s sides.
• The condenser unit is actually quite light and can be dislodged by high winds. Watch for misalignment or loose wiring. Since the wiring carries high voltage, let a professional make the repairs.
• Storms can also result in rapid changes in air pressure inside a home. The normal sound of a cooling cycle might cause a whistling or whooshing sound. While it does not cause long-term damage, it may indicate dangerously high winds.

What’s To Be Done?

Homeowners cannot predict storms, but they can prepare ahead of time for the potential damage.

• Annual AC maintenance ensures that an air conditioner is functioning at peak performance. Caring for an air conditioner ahead of time is great preparation for the potential damage from storms. A clean condenser before a storm aids anyone completing an inspection in a storm’s aftermath.
• Some homeowners create or purchase a cover for the condenser unit and install it before a hurricane approaches. A cover protects the condenser from windblown or falling debris. A protective cover should be installed immediately before the wind picks up and after the air conditioner has been shut off for the duration of the storm. The air conditioner should not be turned on until the cover has been removed from the condenser.
• Consider installing a whole-house surge protector. This safety device is installed between the power grid and the home wiring system. The surge protector interrupts a power surge from a lightning strike, breaking the circuit before damage can occur. This protects the wiring and appliances in a home.
• After a storm, it is important to do a thorough inspection of the home, inside and outside. Notice any damage to the home, to the power and communication lines entering the home, and to the outside condenser unit. Check the service panel and observe where water might have approached the home. If in doubt, call a professional AC maintenance technician or an electrician as needed.

Weathering the Storm with Expert AC Maintenance

For Texas Gulf Coast homeowners, preparing for the erratic weather is a normal occurrence, and that includes your HVAC system. The best defense is a good offense. A good HVAC system offense is proper AC maintenance from Doctor Cool AC and Heating. Regularly scheduling AC maintenance from Doctor Cool AC and Heating can ensure your system is clean, secure, and ready to withstand the elements, giving you peace of mind before, during, and after a storm.

As an award-winning, BBB-accredited AC Maintenance League City and HVAC repair contractor serving League City and surrounding areas, we pride ourselves in providing exceptional service to our customers. Call Doctor Cool & Professor Heat today at 281-516-8044 or email Doctor Cool.