It’s hurricane season in Jacksonville, so preparing your HVAC system can make a significant difference in how well your home weathers the storm. Proper preparation not only helps protect your investment but can also ensure comfort in the aftermath of a storm.

In this blog post, the comfort specialists at United Air Temp discuss some practical tips to get your HVAC system hurricane-ready before the next major storm hits.

Secure Outdoor Furniture & Objects

One of the easiest but most critical steps to protect your home from hurricane damage is securing any outdoor furniture, decorations, or equipment.

During a storm, high winds can turn unsecured items into dangerous projectiles, which could damage your air conditioner or heat pump. These flying objects can also harm your roof, siding, windows, and even nearby vehicles.

Before a storm, be sure to move outdoor furniture, grills, potted plants, and other loose items indoors or secure them tightly to prevent unnecessary damage.

Schedule Routine HVAC Maintenance

Hurricane preparation doesn’t start when a storm hits — it begins well in advance of the windy, rainy season. Regular HVAC maintenance is important for ensuring your system runs efficiently and can handle the strain of extreme weather.

At United Air Temp, we offer a comprehensive maintenance agreement that includes annual inspections to keep your system in top condition year-round. Our routine checkups can catch potential issues before they become costly HVAC repair needs, ensuring that your HVAC system is ready for whatever Mother Nature throws your way.

Lower Your Thermostat Right Before the Storm Hits

If a hurricane is expected to hit Jacksonville, one quick step you can take is to lower your thermostat before the storm arrives. By cooling your home as much as possible before the power goes out, you’ll create a more comfortable environment that will last longer during an outage.

This simple action can provide extra comfort for your family in the hours or days following the storm when air conditioning might not be an option.

Should your air conditioner fail and you can’t cool your home ahead of the storm, it’s important to schedule a quick AC repair. Our team can assess and fix any issues, ensuring your HVAC system is in peak condition when you need it most.

Protect Your Outdoor Unit

Your outdoor HVAC unit is especially vulnerable during hurricanes. If you want to cover your system, turn it off right before the hurricane rolls through. A durable cover can effectively protect your air conditioner or heat pump from flying debris and excessive moisture during the storm.

In addition, hurricane straps can further secure your unit, keeping it in place even in high winds. If you live in a flood zone, consider installing your HVAC unit on a raised concrete slab, as this can help prevent flood damage and give you peace of mind during severe storms.

Schedule HVAC Services With UAT

With expert care and a proactive approach, you can protect your home and keep your family comfortable no matter the weather. Schedule HVAC services to ensure reliable comfort no matter the weather outside.

Our comfort specialists will inspect your system, make any necessary repairs, and ensure that it’s prepared to handle the harsh weather conditions of hurricane season.

Don’t wait until a storm is approaching — act now and contact our team to schedule your HVAC tune-up or repair today.