Hurricane Season: Prepping Your HVAC System in Charleston, SC
2020 has been an unparalleled year around the world. As we work together to stop the spread of COVID-19, taking extra precautions for our loved ones and neighbors, preparations for hurricane season may have understandably drifted out of focus. For our friends in the Lowcountry, we encourage you to remember the dangers of tropical cyclones, taking steps to be ready should we face an extreme weather event. In today’s post, we’re sharing tips on how to minimize damage to your HVAC system in Charleston, SC should our community be impacted by a hurricane.
2020 Hurricane Season
In May of this year, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicted a “busy Atlantic hurricane season,” cautioning residents to prepare for “above normal” activity (the season runs June 1-November 30). The climate factors behind elevated activity include “warmer-than-average sea surface temperatures in the tropical Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea coupled with reduced vertical wind shear, weaker tropical Atlantic trade winds, and an enhanced west African monsoon.”
Dangers to Homeowners
Hurricanes bring a host of dangers with them, although we’re keeping things HVAC specific here. Spending time on the Hurricane Plan section of the National Weather Service website will arm you with pointers on pulling together a hurricane safety kit and creating a hurricane safety plan. Hurricane dangers listed on the National Weather Service website include storm surge, flooding, torrential rains, dangerous winds, tornadoes, dangerous waves and deadly rip currents. Flooding and extreme winds are of special concern for homeowners, as both can wreak havoc on your unit.
Prepping Your HVAC System
Should you need to evacuate before severe weather hits, we’ve gathered the following pointers from leading manufacturers:
- Trane recommends shutting off power to your air conditioner via your circuit breaker and thermostat. This provides protection from electrical surges that can cause harm to your system.
- Lennox recommends securing your unit by checking bolts and adding hurricane straps if you are able.
- Lennox also suggests considering an elevated platform if floodwaters are predicted. Carrier reports: “Standing water in a yard or house can damage a home’s heating and cooling system in ways that are not always readily apparent.”
- Covering your outdoor A/C unit may be helpful to protect it from flying debris. Trane cautions against covering the unit too long since it will lead to moisture issues.
After the Storm
Beware of turning your unit on before having it assessed for damage. Depending on storm severity, calling for a professional inspection provides peace of mind and will help to keep your family safe. Trane advises “storm winds may cause disconnections within your AC unit, which could lead to toxic refrigerant leaks.” At East Cooper Heating and Ai Charleston SCr, each of our technicians are fully licensed and insured. What’s more, they each hold over fifteen years of experience.
We’re Here to Help
The East Cooper Heating and Air Charleston SC team is committed to its employees, customers and communities. We are taking proper measures to ensure the safety of our team members and our customers. Let’s work together to keep you and your family safe this summer. Contact our Charleston SC HVAC company today to get started.
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