Hurricane Season and Your AC: How to Protect Your System Before During and After a Storm
Hurricane season can be really hard on your air conditioner. Strong winds can throw debris into the system, while heavy rain and storms can damage its components. Power outages may also affect HVAC components.
The best way to protect your AC is to prepare before the storm arrives keep the system safely shut down when severe weather threatens and inspect it carefully before restarting it
This matters for homeowners in St. Petersburg and across Tampa Bay.
NOAA states that the Atlantic hurricane season officially runs from June 1 through November 30 with the historical peak occurring around September 10.
Here is what you should do at each stage.
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What Should You Do to Your AC Before a Hurricane?
Do not wait until hurricane warnings start appearing on your phone.
AC protection works best when you prepare early.
Schedule AC Maintenance Before Peak Hurricane Season
Smart Heating & Cooling provides AC maintenance across St. Petersburg and the surrounding Tampa Bay area. Its maintenance process includes system inspection, cleaning, electrical checks, thermostat testing and performance testing.
Finding an electrical connection before a storm is much better than discovering it after the power goes out and comes back on.
Clear the Area Around the Outdoor Unit
Look around your condenser.
Are there branches nearby? Patio furniture? Plant pots? Yard decorations?
Anything that strong wind can move could become flying debris.
Remove objects and trim branches that could fall onto the condenser. Keep plants and other objects away from the equipment so the unit has airflow during normal operation.
Do this well before the storm arrives. Never trim branches near power lines yourself.
Is an AC Surge Protector Worth Considering?
It can be useful in a storm area.
Power can switch off. Return during severe weather. Lightning and grid disturbances can also create surges.
HVAC manufacturer Trane recommends considering a surge protector designed for heating and cooling equipment and having it professionally installed.
Ask a HVAC professional whether surge protection makes sense for your system.
Should You Secure Your Outdoor AC Unit?
If you are worried about winds or flooding talk to a professional before hurricane season.
Outdoor condensers should sit on a base and meet local installation requirements. In areas with flood risk elevation may also be worth discussing.
FEMA notes that most HVAC equipment is not designed to withstand flooding and can suffer damage when submerged. FEMA guidance includes elevation and other protection measures for equipment exposed to flood risk.
Do not attempt modifications when a hurricane is already approaching.
What Should You Do With Your AC During a Hurricane?
Your safety comes first.
Follow evacuation. Instructions from local emergency officials. Protecting an air conditioner should never delay evacuation. Put you near electrical equipment during dangerous weather.
What Should You Do With Your AC During a Hurricane?
Do not automatically switch your air conditioner on as soon as electricity returns.
First look for damage.
Inspect the Outdoor Unit From a Safe Distance
Check for:
- Fallen branches
- Bent panels
- debris
- Standing water
- Visible wiring damage
- A shifted outdoor unit
- Unusual smells
- Signs of impact
Stay away from downed electrical lines and flooded electrical equipment. Florida Power & Light warns residents to avoid flooded areas that may hide damaged power lines or other electrical hazards.
What If Floodwater Reached the AC?
Do not turn it on.
Floodwater can damage controls, motors, insulation, wiring and other internal components.
FEMA explains that HVAC equipment can suffer electrical, corrosion, sediment and contamination damage after flooding.
Have the system inspected by a HVAC technician before restoring operation.
Trying to “see if it still works” could make existing damage worse. Create a safety risk.
When Should You Call an AC Company After a Storm?
Call a professional if your system was exposed to floodwater struck by debris moved from its position or starts behaving differently after power returns.
Warning signs include:
- AC will not start
- Breaker keeps tripping
- Warm air from the vents
- Strange electrical smells
- Buzzing or grinding sounds
- Weak airflow
- Water around the system
- Outdoor fan not working
- Cooling starts and stops repeatedly
Do not repeatedly reset a breaker if it keeps tripping. That can indicate an equipment problem that needs professional diagnosis.
Protect Your AC Before the Next Storm Arrives
Hurricanes are unpredictable. AC preparation does not have to be.
Keep the area clear. Schedule maintenance. Consider surge protection. Address flood risks early. Shut the system down safely when severe weather arrives. After the storm inspect your equipment before turning it on.
