What Homeowners Should Know About Spring Storms and HVAC Protection

Spring in North Texas brings warmer temperatures, blooming flowers and unfortunately, unpredictable and severe weather. Homeowners in Arlington and the greater DFW area know that spring storms can bring strong winds, hail, heavy rain and even tornadoes.

While you might be prepared with high-quality roofing materials and storm-resistant windows, have you considered how these storms affect your HVAC system? Your heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit is one of the most expensive and essential appliances in your home and protecting it from storm damage can prevent costly repairs and keeps it running efficiently.

Secure Your Outdoor Unit

Your outdoor HVAC unit, often called the condenser, is exposed to the elements, making it vulnerable to strong winds and flying debris. To protect it from storm damage:

• Make Sure the Unit is Anchored Properly- Ensure the unit is properly bolted to a concrete slab. If it’s not secured, strong winds can shift or even topple it, leading to costly damage.

• Use a Hail Guard or Protective Cover – Installing a hail guard or a reinforced mesh cover can help shield the unit from hail damage without restricting airflow.
  
  
• Invest in Surge Protection – Spring storms often bring power surges that can damage HVAC components. A whole-home surge protector or a dedicated HVAC surge protector can prevent costly electrical damage.

Check for Debris Before and After a Storm

Spring storms often bring heavy winds, which can blow leaves, twigs and other debris into your HVAC unit. Blocked airflow can reduce efficiency, overwork the system and even cause breakdowns. To prevent this:

• Before a Storm: Clear any loose branches, leaves or patio furniture near the outdoor unit.
• After a Storm: Inspect the area around your unit. If you see debris caught in or around it, turn off the power and carefully remove it.
• Trim Overhanging Branches: Regularly cutting back trees and shrubs near the HVAC unit reduces the risk of falling limbs causing damage.

Install a Surge Protector for Your HVAC System

Spring storms frequently bring lightning and power surges. A power surge, even a small one, can damage your HVAC system’s electrical components, leading to expensive repairs or even complete system failure.

A whole-home surge protector is one of the best investments you can make to shield your HVAC system and other electronics from power surges.

Some of the benefits of surge protection include:

• Preventing electrical damage caused by lightning strikes.
• Extending the lifespan of your HVAC system by protecting its sensitive circuits.
• Reducing the likelihood of unexpected breakdowns and costly emergency repairs.

Turn Off Your HVAC System During Severe Storms

When you know a strong storm is approaching, consider turning off your HVAC system temporarily. Power fluctuations, lightning and flying debris can all pose risks to the unit while it's running. By shutting it off, you can:

• Reduce the risk of electrical damage from power surges.
• Prevent mechanical damage caused by sudden power outages.
• Minimize strain on your HVAC system when power is restored.

Once the storm has passed, check for damage before turning your system back on. If you notice anything unusual, such as strange noises, lack of cooling or visible damage, call a professional before using your system.

Schedule Preventative HVAC Maintenance

The best way to prepare for storm season is with preventative maintenance. A professional HVAC tune-up can help identify and fix potential vulnerabilities before storms hit. During a routine maintenance visit, a technician will:

• Inspect and tighten electrical connections.
• Check refrigerant levels and clean coils for better efficiency.
• Make sure the outdoor unit is properly secured and free of debris.
• Test the system for any hidden issues that could become costly problems after a storm.

Have a Professional HVAC Inspection After a Major Storm

If your home is subjected to a severe storm, it’s a good idea to schedule an HVAC inspection, even if you don’t notice immediate issues. Some damage, like refrigerant leaks or electrical failures, may not be apparent right away. An expert technician can assess your system and make necessary repairs before small problems progress into major issues.

Providing Routine Maintenance Checks, HVAC Repair Services and Storm Damage Assessments in Arlington

Spring storms in Arlington and the DFW area are unpredictable, but with the right precautions, you can protect your HVAC system from damage. If you want to learn more about protecting your home’s HVAC system from damage, Tom’s Mechanical Inc. is here to help.

Our experienced team provides reliable HVAC services to keep your home comfortable year-round, no matter the weather. Contact us at Tom’s Mechanical Inc. today to schedule your spring HVAC maintenance by calling 817-277-4493.