After a severe storm, checking your home for any damage is crucial, and your HVAC system should be a top priority. Storms can wreak havoc on HVAC units, affecting their performance or causing costly damage. Performing a post-storm inspection can help ensure your system is running efficiently and prevent further issues. Here’s a helpful checklist for inspecting your HVAC system after a storm.
Check for Visible Damage
Start with a simple visual inspection of your outdoor unit. Look for signs of physical damage, such as dents, cracks, or bent fins on the condenser. Strong winds, falling debris, or hail can cause this damage, impacting your system’s performance. Call a professional to assess the damage if you notice anything unusual.
Inspect for Debris
Debris like leaves, branches, and dirt can easily accumulate around and inside your outdoor unit after a storm. This can block airflow and strain the system, reducing efficiency or overheating. Clear away any debris you see and check that there are no obstructions inside the unit itself. Keeping the area around the HVAC unit clean is crucial for proper airflow.
Check Electrical Connections
Power surges and outages are common during storms and can cause electrical issues with your HVAC system. If you suspect a power surge, inspect the system’s electrical components. If your system doesn’t turn on, trips the breaker, or shows signs of malfunction, there could be damage to the wiring or other electrical components. In such cases, contact a professional to perform a thorough inspection and any necessary repairs.
Listen for Unusual Noises
After restarting your HVAC system after the storm, listen for unusual noises like grinding, rattling, or banging. These sounds could indicate loose or damaged parts caused by storm impact or power fluctuations. If you hear anything unusual, turn off the system and schedule an inspection before continuing use.
Look for Water Damage
Flooding or heavy rainfall can lead to water accumulation around your HVAC unit. Water entering the unit can damage the compressor, fan motor, or other internal components. Check for any signs of standing water or moisture around the unit. If your unit has been submerged or exposed to excessive moisture, it’s essential to have a professional inspect it to prevent long-term damage or electrical hazards.
Check the Air Filters
Storms often stir up dust and debris, which can make their way into your HVAC system. After a storm, check the condition of your air filters. If they’re clogged or dirty, replace them immediately to ensure your system operates efficiently and maintains good indoor air quality.
Inspect the Thermostat
Power outages can cause your thermostat settings to reset, or in some cases, the thermostat may be damaged. After a storm, check to see if your thermostat is working properly. Make sure the settings are correct, and if you notice any issues, such as an unresponsive display, you may need to replace the thermostat.
Test the System
Once you’ve completed your visual inspection, test your HVAC system by turning it on and monitoring its performance. Pay attention to the airflow, the cooling or heating output, and how long it takes to reach the desired temperature. Any irregularities in performance may indicate internal damage from the storm, and a professional should be called in to diagnose and fix the problem.
Conclusion
After a storm, your HVAC system may be vulnerable to damage that isn’t always obvious at first glance. Following this post-storm inspection checklist can help you catch problems early and ensure your system is functioning efficiently. If you spot any issues or simply want the peace of mind of a thorough inspection, contact All Temp. Our expert technicians are ready to help with any HVAC repairs or maintenance needs after a storm.