It’s very common for Florida homeowners to turn their cooling systems off during hurricanes. Keeping your unit on during the storm increases the risk of damage from extreme electrical fluctuations. Plus, strong winds and heavy rainfall make the outdoor equipment vulnerable to flying debris and flooding. Shutting the system off and keeping the outdoor components covered is a helpful way to reduce potential damage.
Once the storm passes, it’s crucial to remove the cover and do a full system check. Even if you don’t see any visible damage, there could be hidden issues. You don’t want the HVAC system running with loose or damaged components.
Inspect Outdoor Unit for Storm Damage
There are many types of damage to your outdoor HVAC equipment that can occur during a hurricane. You may notice bent or crushed condenser fins, physical dents in the cabinet, broken fan blades or detached panels. This type of damage is typically the result of flying debris and strong winds. If you notice any of these issues, you need to have them fixed before you turn the HVAC unit back on. Running the system with these problems will cause additional damage and eventually lead to system failure.
Check for Flooding Around Condenser
Take a close look at the ground surrounding the outdoor HVAC equipment. If the soil is heavily saturated or washed out, this can signal hidden risks. The ground may shift, causing the unit to no longer be level. This will put extra stress on the refrigerant lines and other components. You shouldn’t try to fix a shifting unit or uneven pad yourself. Instead, you need to contact Arctic Air Home Services. We’ll properly level and secure the equipment.
Do Not Restart Flooded AC Equipment
If any part of the outdoor equipment was submerged during the storm, do not turn the system on. There’s a good chance the unit still has water inside it. The motor and electrical boards may already be inoperable. Some of the safety controls may not work, which creates a serious safety risk. If you turn the system on with these issues, it may cause electrical shorts or expensive damage. Getting the system professionally inspected is the smartest move for safety and system protection.
Look for Visible HVAC Electrical Damage
Don’t touch any wires, but look at all of the electrical connections on the outdoor unit. Scorch marks, frayed wires and loose connections are major red flags to book service. Trying to run the system with damaged electrical components can lead to overheating and other safety hazards.
Clear Debris From Outdoor Unit Area
The outdoor part of the HVAC system needs sufficient airflow at all times to run efficiently. During storms, fallen branches and broken roof materials may impede the flow of air. This will cause the system to run harder than normal to make up for the air resistance. You can remove the debris to restore airflow and ensure the equipment works with optimal energy performance. When removing twigs and leaves from inside the unit, be gentle so that you don’t damage the fins.
Check Refrigerant Lines for Damage
The refrigerant lines to your HVAC unit run from the outdoor unit to the inside of the home. You can usually find them along the exterior wall or entering through the foundation. After the storm, you should check the lines for dents and kinks. The insulation could have torn or the copper may have bent. If you see signs of damage, don’t try using the AC. One of our technicians can inspect the lines and replace them if necessary.
Listen for Unusual System Noises
Only after you’ve made sure the system doesn’t have any damage can you go ahead and switch it on. As the equipment activates, go into each room of the home and listen for unusual noises. If you hear any screeching or rattling, there could be a fan issue or a loose component. A buzzing noise could indicate electrical damage from the storm’s impact. Shut the system off if you hear any of these sounds and book an inspection.
Verify Thermostat and System Response
A system that is safe to use after a storm will respond smoothly to temperature changes. If the equipment turns off before completing a full cycle, there’s some type of problem that needs fast repair. It could be an electrical issue, a sensor malfunction or even leaky refrigerant.
Watch for Burning or Musty Odors
Do you notice musty or burning odors when the system runs? If so, the equipment may have mold or electrical damage inside it. Both of these problems need professional attention. Switch the system off and give us a call. Running the system with these issues will hurt the home’s air quality, increase safety risks and potentially cause permanent damage.
Schedule Professional Post-Storm HVAC Inspection
Arctic Air Home Services can give your whole HVAC setup a thorough examination after a hurricane. We’ll spot hidden issues that many homeowners tend to miss, like damaged wiring or refrigerant leaks. This inspection gives you peace of mind knowing your system is safe to operate. Many in the area trust us because we have an A+ rating with the BBB, and we service a variety of systems from popular brands, such as Trane, Mitsubishi, and Rheem. We also provide 24/7 emergency service and maintenance agreements to keep equipment in top shape.
Contact Arctic Air Home Services today to book a post-hurricane HVAC inspection in Sarasota.
