It’s hurricane season, Longview! Now is the time to start preparing your home for tornados, hail, and severe storms caused by hurricanes on the coastline. Taking the proper precautions is essential to protecting your home and family from severe weather damage. Acme Air Conditioning & Heating is here to help you be stronger than the storm.
Hurricane Prep Tips
Living so far from the Gulf of Mexico, Longview hurricane preparation may not be top of mind. However, our team is here to remind you that the effects of these powerful storms can be felt across the state. Here are some preparation tips to keep in mind this hurricane season.
Gather Severe Weather Essentials
Your disaster kit should include supplies similar to hurricane essentials that can sustain your family for at least three days. This includes non-perishable food, water, medications, flashlights, batteries, first aid supplies, important documents, cash and clothing.
Secure Your Home
If a storm is predicted in your area, reinforce windows and doors with storm shutters or plywood boards. Trim trees and shrubs around your property to minimize potential debris. Check the roof to ensure its strength to withstand high winds. Repair it if necessary.
Secure Outdoor Items
Bring in or secure outdoor furniture, grills and other loose items that could become projected by the high winds.
Prepare For Power Outages
Charge all necessary devices and have backup power sources, such as portable generators or power banks. Stock up on batteries and invest in a battery-operated or hand-cranked radio for weather updates.
Staying updated on your local weather forecasts can ensure you have ample time to prepare for severe weather. Start taking the necessary precautions as soon as severe weather is predicted. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Tips for Keeping HVAC Units Safe Outdoors
Here are some tips to keep your HVAC system safe during severe weather caused by a tornado or heavy storm:
- Turn off the unit – Shut off the power to your HVAC system. Locate the electrical disconnect switch or circuit breaker that supplies power to the unit and turn it off.
- Secure outdoor components – Use hurricane straps, anchors, or brackets to secure the unit. Remove window units and store them inside.
- Cover the unit – If possible, cover the outdoor HVAC unit with a tarp or specific HVAC cover designed for severe weather protection.
- Elevate the unit – If your HVAC unit is at ground level and prone to flooding, consider elevating it on a platform to keep it above potential water levels.
- Protect the condenser coil – If a tornado or hail storm is anticipated, wrap the condenser coil with a waterproof cover or plastic sheet secured with bungee cords.
- Clear the surrounding area – Trim any nearby trees or branches that could fall onto the HVAC unit during high winds. Remove loose objects and debris from around the unit to reduce the risk of damage.
- AC repair and maintenance – Regular air conditioner maintenance by a professional HVAC technician can help identify and address any pre-existing issues or vulnerabilities before severe weather strikes.
If you’re unsure about any aspect of protecting your HVAC system or suspect damage, it’s best to consult with a qualified HVAC technician on our team to ensure proper preparation and safeguarding.
Longview Hurricane Preparation
If you need hurricane season-related AC inspection, air conditioner maintenance or AC repair services, look no further than Acme Air Conditioning & Heating. We have been providing honest, quality and superior service to the Longview area for years. Contact us today to schedule your service!
