Protect Your A/C from Storm Damage
There’s severe weather brewing in the Gulf and it’s time to talk about the importance of protecting your HVAC system during the stormy season. We are all at risk of losing electricity and we would like to remind you that your air conditioner is especially vulnerable during periods of unexpected power failure.
It’s happened to all of us. Dark clouds roll in from the distance. The temperature outside drops a few degrees and the meteorologist interrupts your favorite TV show to warn you that a massive storm is on the horizon. You wrack your brain. Do you have enough nonperishables? Are your files backed up? Do the kids have plenty of boardgames in case the power goes out? The last thought on your mind is if you’ve taken proper precautions to protect your air conditioning unit.
Plenty of us have been through storms before, but you never know how unpleasant it is to sit through a storm without your AC until it’s too late. Help!! is here to help you think ahead and prevent a dark night of musky misery. The lightning gets closer and the rolling thunder shakes your windows. Then, suddenly, you’re plunged into darkness. The power’s gone out and all you can do is search for your old flashlight and wait.
Your whole family exhales with relief as your lights flicker back on, but something’s wrong. The oppressive, sticky air feels like a second skin and there is no cool respite breeze. Your heart sinks. Your air conditioner is kaput.
What now?
First, let’s talk about steps you can take to prevent this unfortunate situation. Then, we’ll set you up with some solutions.
Protecting Your Air Conditioning Unit is Easy
Flickering lights, intermittent electricity, surges or complete power loss can cause major damage to your air conditioning systems.
Preventing damage is as simple as remembering to turn your thermostat to the off position. At the first sign of flickering lights, immediately go to your thermostat and turn it off.
Once electricity comes back on, wait approximately 10 minutes to be sure that there won’t be any more unexpected surges. Once you flip the thermostat switch to “on,” go outside to the condenser (outdoor unit) to verify that your unit is working properly.
Signs Your A/C Unit has Suffered Storm Damage
In some cases, you may not notice the damage immediately, which is why it’s important to double-check. If you still feel a current of air, but it is less cool than before, you may have a refrigerant leak. If this scenario sounds familiar, call your HVAC technician immediately because substantial refrigerant loss can cause permanent damage to your unit.
Another sign your HVAC system is damaged is if it’s making strange rattling or buzzing sounds. This is generally a pretty good indicator that some loose debris has made its way into your unit. You may also have a pressure imbalance; in which case you should shut your system off immediately and have it inspected.
Finally, storms in New Orleans often bring with them the imminent possibility of flooding. If your system has been flooded, immediately get it serviced by your HVAC technician. It’s a good idea to get your system regularly serviced to ensure it works in optimum condition.
How Can I Avoid Storm Damage?
We get it. There isn’t always enough time to predict a storm and turn off your Air Conditioner. That’s what surge protectors are for! You have surge protectors for most of your appliances, so it makes sense to protect one of the most sensitive pieces of technology in your home: the faithful HVAC system.
If your system isn’t working after bad weather attacks, call Help!! Air conditioning & Heating at 504-733-5888 and we’ll come out and get you cooling again.
About Help Air Conditioning
Help Air Conditioning is a local family owned business that has been servicing the New Orleans metro and surrounding areas for 50 years. Kenny, Keith, and Korey Knobloch are continuing what their father started and that is providing great customer service while helping customers stay comfortable during our sweltering summers. Our Service and Installation Technicians are the best because we demand the best for you. Your satisfaction is our #1 Goal.
