October 31, 2014


st louis hvac

Storms are among the most common causes of HVAC systems damage.

Storms can bring along rain, hail, and strong winds and all of these can damage both the HVAC system and the house. Being aware of the effects of a storm and the different methods of protecting the HVAC system can ease the anxiety of a homeowner and help avoid unnecessary repair bills. Homeowners should keep in mind that they should not touch a storm-damaged HVAC system. Contact an HVAC professional who can evaluate the damage and make the necessary repairs on the unit.

Set Up and Use a Sump Pump

HVAC systems located in the basement are at a higher risk of getting damaged because of flooding caused by heavy rains. It is advisable that homeowners set up a sump pump in the basement to prevent a flood from damaging the HVAC system. A sump pump is activated automatically once it detects water inside the basement. It will pump out the water before it builds up inside the basement. It is also necessary to check the sump pump and its power supply regularly to ensure that it functions properly when necessary.

Utilize a Protective Cover on an Outdoor HVAC Unit

Hail and strong winds can bring along debris that can pose a serious threat to the HVAC system. Due to this, it is necessary to use hail guards or a thick cover to protect the outdoor components of an HVAC system from storm damage. If the HVAC unit has a protective cover on it, it is advisable not to use the system until the storm ends. Once the storm passes, the cover can be removed and the HVAC system used again. It is also necessary to check for any damage to the outdoor unit of the HVAC system after the storm passes even if a protective cover was used.

Maintain a Clean Yard

Storms usually bring debris right inside your yard. It is necessary to maintain a clean yard to safeguard the HVAC system. The area around the outdoor unit should be clear of any debris, and trees in the area should be trimmed regularly. Dead branches should be removed so that they are not blown loose by strong winds. When a storm is coming, make sure lawnmowers, bicycles, and other similar equipments are brought indoors to avert any possible damage they can cause to the HVAC system if strong winds blow them into the outdoor unit.

Bring HVAC Equipment to Higher Ground

If the house is located in a low-lying area where flooding is a problem, the homeowner should try to position the HVAC equipment at a higher position to avoid water damage. They can seek information online or from the building commission of the city on how high water can reach in case the area is flooded. This information can be used to find the appropriate location for the HVAC system inside the house and prevent it from being damaged.

Everything you need to ensure that the HVAC equipment is positioned at an appropriate height can be provided by a St. Louis HVAC professional. The HVAC company can also inspect your system, and suggest additional measures to protect it from storm damage. Call Scott-Lee Heating Company at (314) 200-0788.