How To Protect Your HVAC From A Tornado

 

Here in the Tennessee Valley we have an abundance of Tornados throughout the year.   It is so often that most of us have a plan ready for when there is a warning.  Emergency food, flashlights, water and a safe area can be found year round in most homes in North Alabama. 

For our homes we can close shutters and curtains and secure out storm windows over doors and window. Some homes even have a generator ready for when it loses power.  We prepare our homes and even insure them for such disasters. We do this because our homes are valuable to us and we need them daily. 

We go to all of this trouble for a tornado. Most of the time we don’t even consider the very important and expensive piece of machinery sitting right outside. The HVAC unit is designed to hold up against most weather conditions.  There are still many things you can do to protect this valuable piece of your home.

See Also: Staying Cool During Power Outages

Things To Do To Prepare Your HVAC During a Tornado

• Turn off your breaker to your HVAC. 
• Turn off your gas supply to the gas furnace
• Check that the exterior of the HVAC is secure and that all screws are tightened.
• Remove any loose debris that can hit your HVAC.
• Cover your unit if you see a threat of damage from nearby trees or structures.
• Elevate your HVAC to Avoid Flooding.

See Also: Restoring Your HVAC After Flooding

Things to Do After The Storm

• Check for any leaks and make sure all exposed wiring is intact.
• If there was damage to your HVAC, do not turn it on.  Call a licensed technician to have it checked out first.
• If there was any flooding or exposure to other elements call your technician to see what repairs can be made before turning it back on.
• Check your HVAC’s Warranty for what it covers.
• Call your Insurance company to start a claim if there is damage not covered through the warranty. 

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