Hurricane season officially begins next month, and for Florida homeowners, that means it’s time to start preparing your property for potential storms. While most people focus on boarding up windows and stocking up on emergency supplies, one critical area that often gets overlooked is the HVAC system. At Polar Bear Cooling & Heating, we know that protecting your home’s heating and cooling system is just as important as securing the rest of your home—and we’re here to help you do it right.
A little preparation now can help you avoid costly repairs, ensure your comfort after the storm passes, and extend the life of your system. Here are our top tips for getting your HVAC system ready for hurricane season.
1. Secure Your Outdoor Unit
Your HVAC system’s outdoor condenser is vulnerable to high winds and flying debris. Before a storm hits, shut off the power and cover the unit with a manufacturer-approved protective cover or heavy-duty tarp. Use hurricane straps or brackets to anchor the unit in place and prevent it from being knocked over or damaged.
2. Schedule a Pre-Season Inspection
Before hurricane season ramps up, schedule a professional maintenance inspection with our team. We’ll check for any weak components, clean coils and filters, and ensure your system is operating efficiently. A well-maintained system is more resilient to stress and less likely to fail during or after a storm.
3. Elevate and Protect Your Equipment
If your area is prone to flooding, consider elevating your condenser unit on a concrete or composite pad. This reduces the risk of water damage and corrosion. Surge protectors can also help protect your system from electrical spikes caused by lightning or sudden power outages.
4. Turn Off Power During a Storm
If a hurricane is on the way, shut down your HVAC system before the storm hits. Power surges and outages can fry the internal components. Once the storm passes and it’s safe to do so, have a professional inspect your system before turning it back on to ensure it wasn’t damaged.
5. Clear the Area Around Your Unit
Remove loose objects like patio furniture, yard tools, or decorations that could become projectiles in high winds. Trim trees and branches near your HVAC unit to prevent debris from falling on or damaging it.
Let Polar Bear Cooling & Heating Help You Stay Storm-Ready
At Polar Bear Cooling & Heating, we’re proud to serve the Florida community with honest, expert service you can rely on—especially when it matters most. As hurricane season approaches, let us help you prepare your HVAC system for whatever the weather brings.
Contact us today to schedule your pre-season HVAC inspection and enjoy peace of mind knowing your home is ready for the storms ahead.