It’s hurricane season and now is the time to prepare and protect your property and ensure the safety of your family. The experts are forecasting an active or extremely active season this year.
Is your HVAC system prepared for a hurricane?
According to NOAA: For the six-month hurricane season, which begins June 1, NOAA’s Atlantic Hurricane Season Outlook says there is a:
- 70 percent likelihood of 13 to 20 named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher)
- Of which 7 to 11 could become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher)
- Including 3 to 6 major hurricanes (Category 3, 4 or 5; winds of 111 mph or higher)
These ranges are well above the seasonal average of 12 named storms, 6 hurricanes and 3 major hurricanes. These match the estimates published by Colorado State University, Philip J. Klotzbach and William M. Gray. (June 3, 2024)
Hampton Roads is at risk for the effects of hurricanes, but we can’t forget that hail, wind, flooding and tornadoes from storms and nor’easters can cause just as much damage. Residents need to be aware of the risks and damage from these storms.
Be aware and prepare!
Part of that preparation should include what to do with your HVAC system before, during and after a storm. Your system is at risk from high winds, falling debris, power surges, lightening, structural damage and mold. Here are some tips:
Before a storm:
- Have your system checked and maintained by a professional.
- Find out how to secure your outside unit.
- If you have duct work under your home, make sure it is secured above the ground level.
Right before the storm and evacuation:
- Turn off and shut down your HVAC system if it looks like there will be a power outage. This can help protect your system from blown circuits and compressor damage when the power returns.
- Make sure your outside unit is strapped down and elevated. If safe, cover your outside unit, and clear all debris and loose items around your outside unit.
After the storm:
- Check your outside unit for damage.
- If debris has fallen on your unit, be careful if you choose to remove it. It is best to hire a professional.
- If there has been any flooding, DO NOT turn on your equipment or thermostat. Your system needs to be checked by a professional.
Your air conditioning and heating system is an important part of your comfort, and it is a big investment in your home. It needs to be protected and maintained.
For service and repair, you can count on A-1 American Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning to help fix damage from storms and hurricanes. With emergency service 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, you pay by the job, not by the hour, with no overtime charges. Call (757) 425-2400.
This is for information only, and it does not include all of the information available. Please consult your local emergency management and utility companies for further information.
A-1 American provides air conditioning, heating and plumbing services, like flooded and damaged AC and heat pumps for homes and businesses in the Hampton Roads Virginia cities of Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Suffolk, Newport News and Hampton, and north into Williamsburg. A-1 American provides emergency service and repair, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including weekends and holidays. A-1 American charges by the job, not by the hour. A-1 American prides itself on immediate response, punctuality, courtesy and customer satisfaction. Call today 757-425-2400.
Thank you for your many votes of confidence. A-1 American Services was awarded Best of the Best Gold for HVAC and Plumbing two years in a row 2012-2013!
