If you live in Florida, then you understand that hurricanes are a reality for Florida residents, and storm damage can extend beyond the obvious. It’s unfortunate, but it’s something that every Florida resident should be prepared for. Believe it or not, HVAC systems can be affected after a hurricane, which makes post-hurricane HVAC inspections extremely important for safety, comfort, and the prevention of long-term damage. We’re going to give you our top tips and checklist for a post-hurricane HVAC inspection based on our experience at All Year Cooling and Plumbing.
How Hurricanes Can Damage Your HVAC System
Hurricane damage is often focused on homes, structures, and the typical things you might worry about during a storm, leaving out HVAC systems. However, high winds, flooding, and flying debris can cause significant damage to your unit and ductwork. This can lead to problems such as electrical shorts, corrosion, blocked airflow, and refrigerant leaks, which can all reduce HVAC efficiency. Hidden damage that you might not see right away can cause more issues down the road, as well as unsafe operation and even full system failure if it’s not fixed soon enough.
HVAC Checklist for Post-Hurricane
Dealing with a hurricane can be devastating and difficult, but it’s a reality for many Florida residents. We understand how important it is to assess all possible damage after a storm, which includes your HVAC system. Because your HVAC unit sits outdoors, it can take on a lot of damage in the event of a hurricane, making this checklist an essential part of recovery. Here’s a step-by-step checklist you can use to ensure your HVAC system is safe and functioning properly.
Turn It Off Before Inspecting
The first thing you should always do is turn off the entire system before you start inspecting it to avoid any electrical hazards. You should also never restart an AC system right after a power surge or flood for safety reasons.
Inspect the Outdoor Unit for Visible Damage
Because the HVAC unit is outdoors, there’s a possibility it was affected by debris, flooding, or high winds. Look for visible damage, such as debris, denting, or dislodged components. Check for signs of flooding near the unit and remove any branches or leaves that might be blocking it.
Look at Electrical Connections and Wiring
Be very careful when inspecting this part of your unit. Look for signs such as exposed wires, burnt smells, or tripped breakers. A professional should assess and repair any electrical damage done to your unit.
Check for Flood or Water Damage
Standing water can damage internal components of the HVAC system and lead to mold growth or system failure. It’s also important to note that saltwater exposure, which is common in coastal areas like Florida, can accelerate corrosion.
Inspect Ductwork and Air Filters
Although your ductwork might not be outdoors, humidity or floodwaters can still introduce contaminants, mold, and debris. We recommend that you replace your air filters immediately following a hurricane. If you notice that water has entered your air ducts, it’s important to have them professionally cleaned to eliminate the risk of mold growth.
Test Thermostat and Indoor Unit
Only move on to this step once everything has been cleared for safety. Test the thermostat to ensure the display is working and the settings are accurate. Listen for any unusual noises or vibrations when turning the system on.
Common Post-Hurricane HVAC Issues in Florida
When it comes to hurricanes, there are many factors that can cause damage, and HVAC systems can take the brunt of it since they are located outside. Here are some of the most common post-hurricane issues we’ve seen in Florida:
- Flood damage causing corrosion, motor failure, and short circuits
- Debris clogging coils and airflow, leading to system strain
- Power surges resulting in compressor or circuit board damage
- Mold growth due to humidity and flooding
- Reduced efficiency from dirt, debris, and/or damaged components in the system
Preventative Measures You Can Take Pre-Hurricane
Living in Florida means you might experience multiple hurricanes, which is why we’re here to give you some preventative measures you can take to minimize damage as much as possible.
- Secure your outdoor unit with hurricane straps or anchors
- Install a surge protector to protect your HVAC system
- Schedule pre-storm maintenance to ensure system resilience
- Keep the area around your condenser free from debris throughout the year, including trees and bushes
- Cover your outdoor unit if your manufacturer recommends it in the event of a hurricane — just remember to uncover it before restarting
Schedule a Professional Inspection
If you’ve gone through a hurricane and are trying to get things back to normal, it’s important to set up a professional inspection with All Year Cooling and Plumbing. We never recommend doing any repairs or extensive inspections yourself due to the dangers and risks associated with DIY HVAC maintenance and repair. Post-storm inspections are extremely important to ensure that everything is operable and safe.
For safety and insurance purposes, it’s important to have your unit inspected before turning it back on. Hidden damage or buildup, like mold, could lead to costly maintenance issues and health problems. At All Year Cooling and Plumbing, we offer post-hurricane inspections to check electrical components, refrigerant levels, drainage, ductwork, and system performance to ensure it’s safe for use. If you’re interested in scheduling an inspection, contact us today, and we’ll get your system back up and running smoothly after the hurricane.