Florida homeowners know that storm season isn’t just a possibility—it’s an annual reality. With hurricanes bringing intense winds, heavy rain, and extended power outages, preparing your home is essential. While securing windows and stocking up on supplies are common priorities, your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system also needs attention. Without proper precautions, storms can cause costly damage to your HVAC system, leading to repairs or even complete system failure. At Progressive Air, we understand the unique challenges Florida residents face during hurricane season. Taking the right steps before a storm hits can help protect your HVAC system and ensure your home stays comfortable once the weather clears.
Why Pre-Storm HVAC Preparation Matters
Storms bring a range of threats that can impact your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system, posing risks that may lead to damage, inefficiency, or unexpected breakdowns. Consider the following:
- Power Surges and Outages: Sudden electrical disruptions can damage internal HVAC components.
- Heavy Winds and Debris: Flying debris can dent or block your outdoor unit, restricting airflow.
- Flooding and Water Damage: Excessive moisture can lead to electrical failures or long-term corrosion.
Create a Comfort Room inside your home!
Power outages are part of hurricane season—but sweating it out in the dark doesn’t have to be. With our Hurricane Preparedness Comfort Package, you can create a dedicated comfort room in your home that stays powered, cool, and connected when everything else goes dark.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. We make it easy to prepare your home with professional installation and dependable products you can trust.
The setup includes:
✅ A portable generator to run essential appliances
✅ A transfer switch professionally installed for safe, one-flip activation
✅ An LG MiniSplit to keep your space cool and livable
Already have one of these? No problem—we’ll customize your setup based on what you already own. Schedule your FREE customized estimate!
Your comfort room means:
- Lights Stay On
- Food Stays Cold
- Wi-Fi, TV & AC Keep Working
No more sweating in the dark for the power to return, just flip the switch and you’re back to your regularly scheduled program!
Pre-Storm Season HVAC Preparedness Checklist
In addition to help protect your main HVAC system and ensure it’s ready for storm season, follow these 10 essential preparation tips:
- Schedule a Professional HVAC Inspection
Before storm season begins, have an HVAC technician inspect your system. They will check for loose connections, refrigerant leaks, and any existing issues that could worsen in extreme weather. - Secure Your Outdoor Unit
Anchor your outdoor condenser unit to a concrete pad to prevent it from shifting during high winds. If it’s already secured, inspect the bolts and brackets for any signs of wear. - Trim Surrounding Trees and Bushes
Branches and loose debris can cause severe damage if they collide with your HVAC unit. Trim any trees or bushes near your system to reduce the risk of impact. - Install a Surge Protector
A sudden power surge can damage your HVAC’s electrical components. A whole-home surge protector or a dedicated HVAC surge protector can prevent costly repairs. - Elevate Your Outdoor Unit in Flood-Prone Areas
If your home is in a flood-prone area, consider raising your outdoor unit on an elevated platform. This helps prevent water damage during heavy rainfall. - Shut Off Your System Before a Major Storm
If a severe storm is approaching, turn off your HVAC system at the thermostat and circuit breaker. This prevents electrical damage in case of power fluctuations or outages. - Cover Your Outdoor Unit (After It’s Powered Down)
Once your system is off, place a protective cover or tarp over the outdoor unit to prevent debris from getting inside. Be sure to remove the cover once the storm passes to avoid trapping moisture. - Check and Change Your Air Filters
A clean air filter helps your system operate efficiently, especially if you need to rely on it immediately after a storm. Replace or clean your filter before storm season starts. - Test Your Whole House Generator if you have one
If you have a backup whole house generator, test it beforehand to ensure it can properly power your HVAC system during an outage. Make sure it has been maintained, and you have fuel for it. This will help keep your home comfortable if the power goes out. - Inspect and Clean Drain Lines
Blocked drain lines can lead to water backup and potential system failure. Clear any clogs to prevent excess moisture from damaging your HVAC components.
After the Storm: Inspect Your HVAC System
After the storm passes, it’s important to thoroughly inspect your HVAC system to ensure it sustained no damage during the severe weather. Check for any visible debris around the outdoor unit and remove any covers you placed before the storm. Power up your system slowly and listen for unusual sounds that could indicate damage. If you notice any issues, such as inconsistent airflow or strange odors, contact a professional HVAC technician right away to address potential problems before they worsen. By taking quick action after the storm, you can avoid costly repairs and ensure your system is functioning properly for the season ahead.
Contact Us
Taking the right steps to prepare your HVAC system before and after a storm can help protect it from potential damage and ensure it operates efficiently when you need it most. Regular maintenance and timely inspections are key to avoiding costly repairs and keeping your home comfortable year-round. If you are interested in learning more about our Comfort Room package, reach out for a free estimate. If you need assistance getting your HVAC system storm-ready, the experts at Progressive Air are here to help. Contact us today to schedule an inspection or learn more about how we can help safeguard your system before the next storm hits.
