How Can I Prepare My HVAC System for Inclement Weather?

Mother Nature has never been known to take it easy on the Southwest. Whether it is the sweltering heat waves of Arizona, the dry desert winds of Nevada, or the sudden storms in Texas, residents and business owners have to be prepared for anything. 

Storm and inclement weather preparations may come to you as second nature, but do you ever remember your HVAC system during these preparations? It is often forgotten as homeowners strengthen other parts of the home in advance of a bad storm or severe weather. 

You can take steps to prepare your HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system to safeguard it from damage and ensure its efficiency during extreme weather conditions. 

Carrier Cooling Center explores essential tips and strategies to prepare your HVAC system for various types of inclement weather. This includes securing outdoor units, performing routine maintenance, or knowing when to call a professional. 

These insights will help you stay ahead of the storm and keep your HVAC system running smoothly. With the right preparation, you can minimize disruptions, avoid costly repairs, and maintain a cozy, comfortable home no matter what Mother Nature throws your way.

HVAC Storm Preparation

Storms can cause power outages and flooding, both of which can significantly impact your HVAC system. Here’s how to prepare and safeguard your HVAC from these conditions:

• Install a Surge Protector: Electrical storms can cause power surges that damage your HVAC system. A whole-house surge protector can prevent this by diverting excess voltage from your appliances, including your heating and cooling system. Alternatively, there are surge protectors specific to protecting just your HVAC system. 

• Elevate the Unit: If you live in a flood-prone area, FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) recommends elevating your outdoor unit to prevent water damage. This can be done by mounting it on a raised platform or relocating it to a higher area.

• Backup Power: Investing in a standby generator can keep your HVAC system running during power outages, ensuring your home remains comfortable even when the grid goes down.

Winter HVAC Preparation

While the Southwest is known for its warm climate, winter can still bring cold snaps that challenge your HVAC system or the grid it relies on to run the heat. Get ready for the colder months by:

• Insulating Exposed Pipes: Insulate any exposed pipes connected to your HVAC system to prevent freezing and bursting.

• Checking the Furnace: Have your furnace inspected and cleaned to ensure it is in good working order. Replace the furnace filter regularly to maintain efficiency. Find a Carrier Cooling Center dealer near you to perform a preseason inspection of your heating system.

• Sealing Leaks: Inspect your home for drafts and seal any leaks around windows and doors. This will help keep your heated air in and the cold outdoor air out, reducing the strain on your HVAC system to warm the infiltrating air. 

Prepare Your HVAC for All Weather

With these HVAC preparation tips, you can ensure your HVAC system is prepared for the unpredictable weather patterns that can sweep across Arizona, Texas, Nevada and other parts of the Southwest.

HVAC Maintenance

Routine maintenance is the cornerstone of a reliable HVAC system. Schedule a professional inspection at least twice a year—once before the summer and once before the winter. This will help identify potential issues before they become significant problems. 

Carrier Cooling Center has a network of trusted Carrier dealers in the Southwest, including Arizona, California, Idaho, New Mexico, Nevada, and Texas, who will ensure your HVAC system operates efficiently regardless of the weather conditions. 

During these inspections, a Carrier Cooling Center network HVAC technician will typically perform the following tasks:

• Clean or replace air filters to ensure optimal airflow.
• Check refrigerant levels and refill if necessary.
• Inspect and clean the evaporator and condenser coils.
• Examine the ductwork for leaks or blockages.
• Test the thermostat for proper operation.

Regular maintenance not only prepares your HVAC system to run smoothly during extreme weather but also extends its lifespan and improves energy efficiency.

Protecting Your Outdoor Unit

Your HVAC system’s outdoor unit is particularly vulnerable to inclement weather. To safeguard it, you should perform a few household chores regularly, especially when inclement weather is approaching. 

• Clear Debris: Remove leaves, branches, and other debris around the unit to prevent clogs and damage. Trim back any vegetation to ensure at least a two-foot clearance around the unit.

• Secure the Unit: High winds can damage the unit if it isn’t secured. Ensure it’s firmly mounted on a concrete slab, and consider using hurricane straps if you live in a storm-prone area.

• Cover the Unit: Use a breathable cover to protect the unit during severe weather, but only for short periods. Prolonged covering can trap moisture and lead to rust or mold growth.

Energy Efficiency Upgrades

Improving your HVAC system’s energy efficiency can help it perform better during extreme weather and reduce any strain it may feel to maintain the desired indoor temperatures. 

Accessories like smart thermostats can learn your heating and cooling preferences, adjust settings automatically, and be controlled remotely. This not only improves comfort but also reduces energy consumption. 

Zoning systems allow you to control the temperature in different areas of your home independently. Heating or cooling only occupied areas can improve comfort and reduce energy usage.

If your HVAC system is over ten years old, consider upgrading to a newer, more energy-efficient model. Carrier offers a range of high-efficiency units designed to perform well even in extreme weather conditions.

Find a Carrier Factory Authorized Dealer Near You

Preparing your HVAC system for inclement weather is crucial to maintaining a comfortable and safe home environment. By conducting regular maintenance, protecting your outdoor unit, preparing for storms, winterizing your system, and making energy-efficient upgrades, you can ensure your HVAC system is ready to face whatever storm blows through.

For professional assistance, use Carrier Cooling Center’s directory to connect with a Carrier dealer in Arizona, California, Idaho, New Mexico, Nevada, and Texas. To get started, click our Find A Dealer link.

Your comfort and safety are our top priorities, and we’re here to help you weather any storm.