Storm-Proof Your AC: Hurricane Prep Checklist

_{Rain or Shine, Dad Keeps You Fine}

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Tropical storms and hurricanes rarely respect state lines. One rogue gust can turn your outdoor condensing unit into a very expensive lawn dart. That’s why it’s important to be prepared and prepare your home and air conditioning system for hurricane season. Proactive steps like regular maintenance offer significant benefits, such as protecting your air conditioning system and entire HVAC system from costly storm damage and ensuring long-term safety. Securing your system is critical for protecting your air conditioning system, maintaining safety, and keeping your home ready for storms. Here’s how to lock it down—literally—and keep your warranty, sanity, and homeowner’s insurance intact.

_{Before the Storm: Why Hurricane Prep Isn’t Optional}

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When hurricane season rolls in, your air conditioner is on the front lines—whether you realize it or not. Erratic power failures, lightning strikes, and sudden power surges can wreak havoc on your AC system, leaving you with extensive damage and a hefty repair or replacement bill. A surge protector is a smart first step, but real protection means thinking ahead. Don’t let your AC unit sit idle and unprotected until the storm hits. Take the time now to secure your system, check all electrical connections, and make sure your air conditioner is ready to weather the storm. Proactive prep isn’t just about avoiding harm to your equipment—it’s about keeping your home comfortable and your investment safe when the next hurricane or tropical storm comes knocking.

_{1 | The 48-Hour Countdown}

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The process of preparing your AC unit for a hurricane includes considering the location of the unit and ensuring it is properly covered to protect against debris, water, and high speed winds.

1. Power down at the disconnect—prevents voltage spikes when lines drop. Turn off electricity to the AC unit and other appliances before the storm arrives.
2. Clear the area. Five feet of debris-free perimeter = fewer projectiles.
3. Secure or remove lawn furniture to prevent it from becoming dangerous debris during strong winds.
4. Remove or cover window air conditioners. Unplug and remove the window air conditioner if possible, or securely cover it and the window to prevent damage from strong winds and high speed winds.
5. Install hurricane straps or anchor bolts into the pad. Pro tip: stainless hardware laughs at rust.

_{2 | Surge Protection}

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A whole-home surge protector eats voltage spikes for breakfast. Without proper surge protection, power surges can result in blown fuses or damage to the compressor.

These surge protectors are fairly inexpensive ($80-$200 in most use cases), and can save more appliances than just your AC system.

_{3 | Waterproof Your Electronics}

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• Elevate or seal the disconnect box above projected flood level.
• If your AC unit sits in a low or flood-prone area, seal the contactor with silicone to help keep water out. High moisture from flooding can lead to mold or electrical issues if the unit is not properly protected.

These steps help keep your AC system protected from water damage.

_{4 | Standing Water: The Silent AC Killer}

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Standing water is one of the most overlooked threats to your air conditioner during a hurricane. If your AC unit ends up sitting in a pool of water, it can quietly destroy the electrical components and compressor, leading to severe damage or even the need to replace the whole unit. To protect your AC system, make sure it’s elevated above any potential flood line and keep the area around it free from debris that could block drainage. After the storm, don’t rush to turn your AC back on—inspect for any signs of water damage first. If you spot anything suspicious, like water inside the unit or electrical issues, call an HVAC professional for a thorough check and repair. Remember, standing water can silently ruin your air conditioner, so take steps now to keep your system high, dry, and ready to cool.

_{5 | Myth-Busting: Hurricane-Rated Unit is Invincible}

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It’s easy to think that a “hurricane-rated” air conditioner is bulletproof, but even the toughest units have their limits. While these AC units are built to handle high winds and flying debris, they’re still susceptible to lightning strikes, power surges, and flooding—just like any other system. Don’t let the label lull you into a false sense of security. Protect your investment by covering your unit with a sturdy tarp or plywood, unplugging it during the storm, and making sure it’s anchored securely. Even hurricane-rated air conditioners need extra protection from electrical and water damage. Take the time to safeguard your unit, because when a hurricane hits, every layer of protection counts.

_{7 | After the Storm—60-Second Inspection}

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Once the hurricane passes, resist the urge to flip your AC system back on right away. Instead, give your AC unit a quick but thorough inspection. Check for any visible water damage, debris lodged around the unit, or signs of electrical trouble like burnt smells or unusual noises. Make sure the vents are clear and nothing is blocking airflow. If you notice anything off—dents, standing water, or electrical issues—don’t risk further damage. Call an HVAC professional to assess and repair your system before restarting it. Taking just a minute to inspect your AC after the storm can save you from bigger headaches and costly repairs down the line.

_{8 | After the Storm—60-Second Inspection}

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1. Is it level? A 1-inch tilt can oil-starve the compressor.
2. Any fins crushed? Bent fins = suffocated condenser.
3. Sniff for burnt-electronics odor before restoring power.

After completing this inspection checklist, it's important to schedule professional maintenance to ensure your air conditioning system is safe and fully operational. Proper inspection and maintenance not only help restore cooling and maintain a comfortable temperature in your home after a hurricane, but also protect your system's efficiency and longevity in the long run.

_{9 | Document for Insurance}

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Snap date-stamped photos pre- and post-storm. Claims adjusters love evidence more than they love saying “denied.”

If you find yourself in need of help before or after storm, give us a ring or book online! We’re on the way…’cause that’s what Dad would say!