Summer Thunderstorms and HVAC: How to Protect Your System

As the temperatures rise during the summer months, so does the likelihood of thunderstorms. While these storms can be awe-inspiring to watch, they also pose a potential risk to your HVAC system. In this blog post, we'll explore the impact of summer thunderstorms on your HVAC system and provide some tips to help you protect it.

Power Surges: One of the primary concerns during thunderstorms is power surges. Lightning strikes can cause sudden voltage spikes that can damage electrical components in your HVAC system. To safeguard against power surges, consider installing a surge protector for your HVAC unit and other sensitive electronic devices in your home.

Flooding: Heavy rainfall during summer thunderstorms can lead to flooding, which can be detrimental to your HVAC system. If your outdoor condensing unit is located in a vulnerable area prone to flooding, it's crucial to elevate the unit or take steps to prevent water from entering it. Additionally, make sure that your indoor unit and ductwork are well-sealed to prevent water infiltration.

Outdoor Debris: Strong winds accompanying thunderstorms can blow debris, such as branches, leaves, and dirt, into your outdoor HVAC unit. This debris can clog the coils, obstruct airflow, and reduce the efficiency of your system. Regularly inspect and clean your unit after a storm to remove any debris that may have accumulated.

Power Outages: Thunderstorms often come with the risk of power outages. Extended power outages can be problematic for your HVAC system, especially if it remains off for a significant period. When the power is restored, there can be a sudden surge that may cause damage to your system. Consider investing in a backup power source, such as a generator or an uninterruptible power supply (UPS), to prevent abrupt power disruptions.

Routine Maintenance: Regular maintenance is essential for the longevity and performance of your HVAC system, especially after a thunderstorm. Schedule a professional HVAC technician to inspect and service your system to ensure that any storm-related damage is addressed promptly. They can clean the coils, check for electrical issues, and ensure that your system is functioning optimally.

Protecting Indoor Air Quality: Thunderstorms can bring high humidity levels and potentially compromised air quality. To maintain a healthy indoor environment, consider using your HVAC system's air purification features, such as a HEPA filter or an activated carbon filter. These filters can help remove allergens, dust, and other contaminants from the air.

Summer thunderstorms can pose risks to your HVAC system, but with proper precautions, you can protect it from potential damage. Implementing surge protection, preventing flooding, cleaning debris, ensuring backup power, and scheduling routine maintenance are all key steps in safeguarding your system. By taking these measures, you can keep your HVAC system running smoothly throughout the stormy summer season.

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Why You Should Invest in an HVAC Maintenance Contract: Top 3 Reasons

By Loren Crabtree • February 11, 2025

Why You Should Invest in an HVAC Maintenance Contract: Top 3 Reasons Regular maintenance of your HVAC system is not just about ensuring the comfort of your home; it's a crucial part of safeguarding the investment in your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system. An HVAC maintenance contract can be a game-changer for homeowners, offering several benefits that go beyond the routine check-up. Here are the top three reasons why getting an HVAC maintenance contract is a wise decision: 1. Cost Savings One of the most compelling reasons to invest in an HVAC maintenance contract is the potential for significant cost savings. Here's how it affects your budget positively: Reduced Repair Costs: Regular maintenance catches issues before they escalate into major problems, reducing the likelihood of facing expensive repairs down the line. Energy Efficiency: A well-maintained HVAC system runs more efficiently, consuming less energy and thereby lowering your utility bills. Small adjustments made during routine maintenance can improve energy efficiency, leading to noticeable savings over time. Extended System Lifespan: Regular check-ups and fixes can extend the lifespan of your HVAC system, postponing the substantial cost of system replacement. 2. Improved System Performance and Comfort An efficiently running HVAC system directly impacts your home's comfort and air quality: Consistent Temperatures: Regular maintenance ensures that your system distributes air evenly and maintains consistent temperatures throughout your home, eliminating hot or cold spots. Better Air Quality: Maintenance includes cleaning or replacing air filters, inspecting ductwork, and checking the system's cleanliness. This not only improves the air quality by reducing pollutants and allergens but also enhances the overall performance of your HVAC system, making it easier to breathe and enjoy your indoor space. Reliability: Knowing that your HVAC system has been professionally inspected and maintained gives you peace of mind. You can trust that your system will work reliably, especially during extreme weather conditions when you need it the most. 3. Priority Service and Convenience Having an HVAC maintenance contract often comes with perks that make the service even more worthwhile: Priority Service: Contract holders typically receive priority scheduling for maintenance visits and repairs. This means if your system breaks down, especially during peak seasons, you'll be at the top of the list for service calls. Reminder Services: It can be easy to forget about scheduling maintenance visits. Most companies that offer maintenance contracts will keep track of this for you, reaching out to schedule your bi-annual maintenance visits at the appropriate times. Comprehensive Service Records: With a contract, your HVAC provider maintains a history of all services performed on your system, allowing for a more tailored and efficient service experience. This comprehensive history can also be valuable for warranty claims and when assessing the health and longevity of your system. Investing in an HVAC maintenance contract is not just about fulfilling a routine maintenance checklist; it's about securing a partnership that ensures the longevity, efficiency, and reliability of your heating and cooling system. The peace of mind, cost-saving benefits, and enhanced performance of your HVAC system make the maintenance contract a worthwhile investment for any homeowner. Prioritizing your home's comfort and your system's health through a maintenance contract will always be a smart choice for the savvy homeowner.