With hurricane season well underway on the Coastal Bend, it’s always helpful to review basic severe-storm preparations. Harsh weather, whether it’s a hurricane or a strong storm coming from inland, can leave your home and HVAC system vulnerable to destructive winds and torrential rains, as well as extended power outages.
Take These Steps Now
Storms can build suddenly in our part of Texas, so you don’t want to wait until one’s on top of you. Check the outdoor unit of your split-system A/C or heat pump to ensure that it’s firmly secured to its concrete pad, with tie-downs that aren’t worn or old.
To guard against destructive power surges during a storm, consider installing whole-house surge protection. In lieu of that, if a storm is approaching, cut the power to sensitive appliances and electronics.
Hurricanes and severe storms can result in power outages that last from minutes to days. Consider a whole-house, standby generator to take over for your regular power if the electricity goes out. These units kick on seamlessly, and can be tied directly to your natural gas or propane source.
When You Know a Storm is Coming
Secure or store any outdoor items, including lawn furniture, toys, tools, potted plants, etc., that may get blown by strong winds and become dangerous projectiles. Before the storm, cut the power to your A/C or heat pump at the breaker box. If you have any automobiles in the driveway, park them where they’re least likely to be hit by a falling tree or branches.
After the Storm
First carefully inspect your property to make sure no power lines are down or tree limbs dangling dangerously overhead. Don’t start your A/C or heat pump until after you take some safety steps. Inspect the cooling system’s outside unit for any obvious damage to coils, wires or the cabinet. Before starting the system, remove any debris such as fallen limbs and twigs from around the outdoor unit. Turn on the A/C, listening carefully for any unusual operating noises.
For more advice on preparing for hurricane season, please contact us at Mathews CCAC
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Corpus Christi, Texas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about severe weather preparation and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Guide or call us at 361-678-2495.
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