Severe weather can take a toll on your air conditioning unit, leading to costly repairs or even premature replacement. As Floridians, we are all dealing with one or more of the following issues: hurricanes, heavy rain, extreme heat, and risk of flooding. Therefore, taking proactive steps to protect your AC can help keep it running efficiently year-round.
If you’re searching for HVAC replacement or are seeking New Port Richey air conditioning services or Pasco County air conditioning, you found the pros! Our tips in this blog will help safeguard your system from weather-related damage.
1. Secure Your Outdoor Unit
Strong winds and heavy storms can turn loose debris into dangerous projectiles that may damage your outdoor AC unit. (We all remember Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton which hit us back to back in October 2024!) To prevent similar damage, it’s crucial to:
- Remove objects like patio furniture, branches, or tools that could be blown into the unit.
- If your area is prone to hurricanes or severe storms, consider installing hurricane straps or brackets to keep the unit securely in place.
- If your unit is damaged in a storm, don’t be a fool, call Johnny Cool, your local Tampa AC repair company for a professional inspection and fast repairs.
2. Install a Protective Cover (But Use It Wisely)
Using a high-quality AC cover can shield your unit from debris and excessive moisture, but it’s important to use it correctly:
- Choose a breathable cover designed for AC units to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to rust or mold growth.
- Never cover the unit while it’s running, as this can trap heat and cause system malfunctions.
- If your system is struggling due to weather-related damage, consider our AC repair in Hudson, FL or Pasco County air conditioning services to get it back in shape.
3. Elevate Your Unit in Flood-Prone Areas
If you live in a flood-prone area like parts of New Port Richey air conditioning systems may be at risk. Your AC condenser should be installed on a raised platform to prevent water damage. Ideally, it should be at least a foot above expected flood levels to avoid electrical and mechanical failures.
4. Protect Against Lightning Strikes and Power Surges
Severe storms often bring lightning, which can cause dangerous power surges that may damage your AC’s electrical components. To minimize risk:
- Install a surge protector to prevent sudden spikes from damaging your unit.
- Consider turning off your AC during major storms to reduce the likelihood of electrical damage.
- If you live in northern counties and your system experiences electrical failure, you may need HVAC service specialists or AC repair technicians to diagnose and fix the issue.
5. Clear Debris Before and After Storms
Strong winds can blow leaves, dirt, and debris into your AC, blocking airflow and reducing efficiency. Before and after a storm:
- Inspect the area around your unit and remove any obstructions.
- Trim nearby trees and bushes to minimize debris buildup.
6. Schedule Regular Maintenance
Routine maintenance is key to keeping your AC prepared for severe weather. Have a professional inspect and service your unit at least twice a year to ensure everything is running efficiently and to address potential issues before they become major problems. If you need AC repair in Wesley Chapel, HVAC service in Tampa, or air conditioning repair in Tampa, just give us a call! Our regular tune-ups can prevent costly breakdowns.
Final Thoughts
Your AC is a major investment, and protecting it from extreme weather can save you money and headaches down the road. By securing the unit, using the right cover, elevating it if necessary, protecting against surges, and keeping up with regular maintenance, you’ll ensure your system stays in top shape no matter what Mother Nature throws your way.
Would it just be easier to get professional help protecting your AC? No problem!
Contact Johnny Cooling for expert maintenance and storm-proofing solutions. In case of damage, rest assured—we handle Tampa AC repair, AC repair in Wesley Chapel, AC repair in New Port Richey, AC repair in Hudson, FL and the surrounding areas.