Common AC Repair Caused by Hurricanes

How to Prepare Your Home and Avoid Costly AC Repair After a Hurricane

Should a hurricane pass through this location, the damage will be widespread, and the extent of the damage will be determined by the intensity of the storm. No one can predict damage precisely, but there are general expectations that can help homeowners prepare. There are also expectations that will help homeowners make AC repair easier. Damage will come because of:

  • High Winds. A Category One hurricane will have sustained winds of at least 75 miles per hour, while a Category Five hurricane (the most intense hurricane) can sustain winds of 200 miles per hour. Such winds damage structures, trees, and above-ground infrastructure. Windblown debris is extremely dangerous at these speeds.
  • Heavy Rainfall. Meteorologists recognize that rainfall during hurricanes contributes to their intensity. This is especially true when a hurricane moves slowly or stalls after landfall: Hurricane Harvey stalled over the area, dropping about 60 inches of rain on the Houston metro area in the matter of a few days.
  • Lightning Strikes. The number of strikes varies tremendously from storm to storm, but the possibility cannot be ignored.

Storm Surge to Flooding: What to Do Before You Need Hurricane AC Repair

How do these storm features damage home heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems?

Power Surges and Outages. A short power outage is an uncomfortable annoyance, but a power outage that lasts days or weeks can endanger the family’s health and security. A power outage can result from any one or combination of these storm features and can require extensive repairs. To avoid these repairs, consider

  • High winds can create a surge of electricity 20 to 50 times the normal rate. A lightning strike can produce 1 million volts and completely overwhelm everything electrical. A whole-house surge protector can shield the wiring and appliances from damaging voltage. A surge protector stops the surge at the electrical service panel.
  • Without a surge protector, a homeowner can trip the main circuit breaker at the service panel, accomplishing the same results. When the dangerous winds and lightning pass, the breaker can be tripped and power restored.
  • The above solutions protect a home from dangerous power surges. A backup generator can protect the home and family during lengthy power outages. A transfer switch at the electrical service panel monitors power from the power grid. When power ceases, the home is switched off from the grid, and the generator starts automatically; the process takes a few seconds. When power is restored, the generator shuts off, and the home is reconnected to the power grid.

Repairing damage to the wiring system and replacing ruined appliances is expensive and time-consuming. It’s best to avoid the damage by preventing problems before they happen.

Flooding Damage. Developers, engineers, and planners use research from previous storms to prevent the construction of homes in flood-prone areas. Occasionally, homes still experience flash flooding and, in extremely heavy rainfall, some localized flooding. When flooding begins, there is little to be done but wait. Make sure to trip the main breaker before water enters the home to reduce shock and fire risk. Do not turn the power back on until the home has thoroughly dried out and been completely inspected. Flooding can also cause damage to:

  • Flooring, drywall, insulation, and foundations, and
  • Building systems, including electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems

Flood damage gets into every gap between walls and floors, and behind installed appliances. Wet, dirty water will promote mold and mildew: everything will need to be uncovered, dried, and treated before restoration can begin. Water will collect in affected ductwork, so it will need to be replaced to ensure mold does not remain in the ducts.

Condenser Unit Damage. The most vulnerable HVAC component during a hurricane is the condenser unit installed outdoors. The condenser is susceptible to:

  • Flying debris
  • Falling debris from overhead trees
  • Being blown away: they are lighter than you might think
  • Losing refrigerant as a result of damage, and
  • Dust and dirt clog the condenser coil

For the best results, the condenser unit should be strapped to the concrete pad to prevent it from being blown away in the storm. Consider purchasing or fabricating a cover for the condenser to protect it from most debris.

Schedule Your Preventive AC Repair Visit Before the Storm Hits

Hurricane season is just around the corner, and the absolute worst time to find out your cooling system is vulnerable is after a major storm hits. By scheduling a preventative AC repair and AC maintenance appointment today, our technicians can securely strap down your outdoor condenser, check your electrical connections, and ensure your system is ready to withstand severe weather. Don’t risk getting left in the sweltering heat—call All Cool AC & Heating at 281-238-9292 now to protect your home and secure your comfort before the storm season arrives.