Hurricane season in Orlando is a time for preparation and vigilance. Taking preventative measures to protect your home, family, and essential systems — like your HVAC — can make a big difference when severe weather strikes.

Your heating and cooling systems play a crucial role in keeping your home comfortable, and taking a few proactive steps can help it weather the storm safely.

Raise Your Outdoor Unit

One of the best ways to protect your HVAC system from flood water is to install the outdoor unit for your air conditioner or heat pump on a raised concrete slab. This helps prevent water damage, which can be a major concern in low-lying areas prone to flooding.

If your unit is already installed at ground level, it may be worth investing in this upgrade to minimize damage and extend its lifespan — it could last a decade or longer.

Secure Outdoor Furniture & Objects

Hurricane-force winds can turn unsecured outdoor furniture, decorations, and even garden tools into dangerous projectiles. These can damage your air conditioner, heat pump, siding, roof, or windows.

To prevent this, store patio furniture, planters, grills, and other loose items indoors before the storm hits. If it’s not possible to bring everything indoors, use bungee cords to tie patio furniture and other items together and secure them to something solid, like your house or deck. You can also throw outdoor furniture in the pool if you have one.

Lower Your Thermostat Right Before the Storm

Set your thermostat lower than usual just before the storm arrives. If the power goes out, your home will retain the cooler temperature for longer, keeping you more comfortable while you wait for the power to come back.

Cover Your Outdoor Unit During the Storm

As the storm makes landfall, turn your system off and cover your outdoor unit with a tarp and/or hurricane straps to shield it from flying debris and heavy rain. Remove the cover as soon as the storm passes, and then you can turn the system back on.

Covering your unit during normal operation can trap moisture, leading to rust, mold, or other damage. It can also make it more difficult for your air conditioner to expel heat, leading to less effective cooling.

After the Storm: Call in the Pros

Once the storm has passed, inspect your HVAC system for visible damage. Look for debris around your outdoor unit, signs of water intrusion, or unusual noises during operation. If you notice anything concerning, don’t hesitate to call an HVAC professional.

At United Air Temp, we know how critical it is to restore comfort to your home after a hurricane. We’re here to help with 24/7 emergency repairs, same-day service, and upfront pricing. Our highly trained technicians treat every customer like family, guaranteeing satisfaction on every call.

Contact United Air Temp today to schedule an HVAC repair for your Orlando home.