3 Precautions for Tampa Air Conditioning Storm Preparation

Tampa air conditioning storm preparation can be an important regimen for Florida homeowners. Although the first tropical storm has already occurred this year (remember Hurricane Alex??) hurricane season typically occurs between June 1-November 30. Multiple meteorologists are anticipating the amount of this season’s storms to be above average. However, there is no real correlation between number of storms and number of U.S. landfalls. So it’s kind of up in the air what type of season we will actually have.

Amid the unknown there are a few solid facts for what you can do to ensure your HVAC system is ready for a storm.

1) Be sure you’re A/C unit has had a preventative HVAC check. This will catch any potential issues before it’s too late.

2) Before the storm hits, unplug all electrical units in case there is a power outage or shortage. Additionally, turn off the A/C unit breaker. This will reduce the possibility of damage to the system, which could be costly. It will also decrease the chance of the circuits or fuse box blowing when electricity is restored.

3) It is equally as important to take precautions with the exterior of your unit. Use tarps to protect the unit from objects being thrown about by the wind or even board up the unit to protect it from strong winds, debris, and lightning strikes.

Additional Tampa air conditioning storm preparation tips

• Run the AC extra cold as the storm approaches
  Pre-cool the house by setting your thermostat well below the normal level. When the power dies, the air will be very cold in the rooms. The colder the air is, the longer it will take to warm up. This could improve comfort levels in the event that you are out of power for a prolonged period of time.
• Be aware of rising water and flooding
  Flooding is a common occurrence during storms, particularly with Tampa hurricanes. An air conditioning unit that’s been submerged by flood water could become damaged beyond repair. Stacking sandbags around your exterior air conditioning unit can prevent such flood damage.

After the storm

Check your exterior for storm damage. Has the unit been struck by debris? Was the air conditioning unit submerged in flood water? If so, do not turn it on, as this could cause even more damage. Organisms and bacteria may have contaminated the unit, which will contaminate your home if the unit is turned on. Call an air conditioning repair company to check the unit for post storm damage. They will tell you if it is safe to turn back on.

The most important piece of information we can give is for you to be safe. If you have any questions about hurricane prep or to schedule a Tampa air conditioning storm preparation checkup, please call us at 813-689-2082.