Spring brings flowers and showers. The latter is especially true in the late Canadian springs as Edmonton prepares to welcome the wet summers. Although Edmonton receives most of its rain in June, May marks the beginning of the wet season and receives a fair amount of rain. In this regard, we are not only referring to calm and light showers but also frightening thunderstorms. According to Global News, Canada receives most of its thunderstorms between mid-April and mid-October.
Thus, you need to prepare in advance to avoid any surprises later on.
Undoubtedly, local Canadians do not need us to re-emphasize the dangers of Alberta’s stormy weather. However, if you are new to this kind of weather, it would greatly pay off to keep an eye on your electrical appliances during the stormy months. Otherwise, you might be in for a shocking monthly budget exceedance.
Well, local or not, as Edmonton’s most reputable HVAC contractors, we believe everyone needs to understand the need for HVAC safety precautions during this season. Honestly speaking, our busy lifestyles rarely give us the chance to worry about our HVAC systems of all things. However, do not forget that an HVAC system is a big investment. Therefore, depriving it of the attention and care it demands may not have a delightful effect on your pocket.
In order to avoid the scenario of crying over spilt milk later, we present this blog to help our readers prepare in advance for the stormy weather. Practice these minor safety tips to avoid hefty issues in the future.
How To Avoid Damage To Your HVAC System During Bad Weather
Simply covering the outdoor unit will never suffice. With lightning striking every now and then, the matter requires utmost diligence and attention:
Keep An Eye On The Weather Forecast
You might think this tip is irrelevant to you since you are not a driving or travelling enthusiast. But it is very applicable to your HVAC system. If you get a storm warning in advance, you surely will be in a better position to handle sudden power outages and lightning strikes. This step will give you the time you need to make all other short-term preparations, like checking the safety of your outer unit.
Secure The Outside Unit
Speaking of the outside unit, you certainly understand that the latter will bear the biggest impact of bad weather, don’t you? Thus, your first priority should be to make sure that it is secure during a storm. Rain is often accompanied by strong winds, which have the tendency of picking up and dropping materials from place to place. Thus, ensure that your outdoor unit has no nearby furniture or anything that can easily be dragged by the wind.
It would also be good to trim nearby trees to avoid damage caused by broken branches. Moreover, cover the unit to further protect it from flying debris and other materials. However, remember to uncover it once the storm is over.
Turn Off The HVAC System During A Storm
Regression is sometimes the best innovation. Therefore, we believe this conventional safety tip is still relevant in the current era. Whenever the forecast alerts you of a possible storm, pre-cool your house and turn off the electricity to your HVAC system before the storm commences. The latter will protect you from damage when there is a lightning strike.
Accordingly, we would recommend you unplug your other appliances as well to remain safe.
Purchase A Surge Protector If You Can Afford it
Although we cannot assure you that a surge protector will guarantee you 100% protection from lightning, it, nevertheless, is a beneficial appliance. During a storm, a surge protector helps to ground the lightning to avoid it from causing any damage to the house. But if your budget does not allow for you to purchase one, simply switch off everything during the storm.
Check For Damage Before Switching The System On Again
Once the storm is over, do not rush to switch the system back on again. First, inspect it for any apparent signs of damage. If the system does not show any sign of impairment, you may turn it on.
Seek immediate HVAC Repair If There Is Damage
However, if the system is damaged or begins to malfunction after a storm, seek immediate HVAC repair services. Remember, any momentary recklessness or laziness may turn into a bigger and more costly issue in the future.
Seek The Services Of The Most Reliable HVAC Contractors In Edmonton
In the event of storm damage or even for a regular inspection, you should never compromise quality in the name of saving on cost. Nor Can Heating & Air has provided unmatched HVAC repair and maintenance services at the fairest prices in Edmonton for years. Contact the best HVAC contractors in Edmonton now.
