If you own a business in Plant City, FL you’re likely familiar with hurricane season. From June to November, you have to prepare for harsh weather. Not only does this impact business and foot traffic, but hurricanes can take a serious toll on your commercial equipment, especially your HVAC system.
The first concern is strong winds damaging your outdoor HVAC units. Next, is the issue of flooding; small businesses with basements and below-ground stockrooms understand this problem all too well.
Powerful winds cause power surges and sudden shut-offs which overworks and damages HVAC systems.
Learn how to prepare for an HVAC emergency.
Inspect Your Plant City, FL HVAC System
Your first step is to see if your commercial HVAC system is nearing its expiration date. With proper maintenance, your system should last up to 25 years. If you start noticing signs of trouble by this point, you’re likely due for a replacement.
Watch for the following HVAC signs:
- Skyrocketing small business energy bills
- Obstructed or weak airflow
- A noticeable rise in humidity levels
- Strange (and prolonged) unit noises
- Pungent odors
- Long cooling cycles with minimal output
- Erratic cycles (going from short to long)
- Paying for frequent repairs
- Air quality problems
You can start by troubleshooting your thermostat.
A broken thermostat is unable to control your HVAC system. Plus, it will produce an inaccurate read. You can use a screwdriver to remove the faceplate to inspect the thermostat.
Book an Inspection For Hurricane Season Safety
Beyond thermostat issues, you should hire a commercial HVAC technician to inspect your equipment. You can always call a professional to inspect your system before a big storm to be on the safe side. Even a routine duct cleaning can make a difference and cut down on messy cleanup.
Your inspection should also include thoroughly checking HVAC wiring to prevent electrical fires during storms. A technician will check for any AC refrigerant leaks or gas leaks. If you suspect a gas leak, call a professional right away to avoid the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning during the storm.
A full system replacement is a larger project. Never take on an HVAC installation yourself; you’ll risk electrical hazards with incorrect wiring, leaks, property damage, and high utility bills. You also need an accurate heating and cooling load calculation to find the right system.
A professional will match the right system to your commercial space. System parts will be correctly installed to prevent loose parts from damaging the HVAC units. New HVAC systems also make less noise which makes for a more pleasant workplace and customer experience.
Make sure to book a system replacement by spring so that it’s ready by hurricane season.
Prepare HVAC System Units Outdoors
The condition of the area outside your commercial building is also important.
Take this time to assess the condition of any surrounding trees or plants. Hurricane winds can easily uproot ground plants and flower pots and send them flying toward your outdoor HVAC unit. These same winds can knock down trees, causing them to topple on top of equipment.
Call a tree trimming service or gardening business to inspect your yard and remove any potential hazards. Routine maintenance will clear away any debris that can clog or damage your outdoor unit.
Store any of the following items inside to prevent HVAC damage:
- Cafe tables and chairs
- Freestanding benches
- Table umbrellas
- Freestanding signs (and hanging signage)
- Magazine stands
- Outdoor clothing racks
- Bins and baskets
Next, buy sturdy tarps to place over your outdoor units. You may need to purchase some stakes and nail the tarp to the ground. You can find tarps with metal rings. Hurricane straps are also available.
Flooding around your commercial space is also likely. You’ll need to elevate your outdoor units to avoid water damage. However, the platform needs to be sturdy enough to withstand powerful winds.
A heavy cement-based platform works. You can also buy cement blocks and stack them up. You could also hire a professional to build a cement foundation for your outdoor units.
Line the platform with plenty of sandbags for further protection. Consider building a gate around your HVAC units that can withstand powerful hurricane winds. These gates also protect your outdoor units from critters and other damage from pests.
Commercial HVAC Tips For Hurricanes
Make sure to close your business on the day of the hurricane. Communicate the closure to customers by leaving a message on your website, social media, and business voicemail. If you manage an office, send a mass SMS to employees reminding them to not come to work.
Turn off your HVAC’s power supply while preparing your system to weather the hurricane. This tip will avoid costly power surges that can raise utility bills, cause electrical fires, and damage units. Many small business owners install surge protectors to be on the safe side.
More Ways to Prevent HVAC Emergencies
Inspect the exterior of your commercial space for any potential hazards that could damage your HVAC system.
For example, old roofing shingles are particularly vulnerable during hurricanes. Similar to commercial HVAC systems, you should see if your roof needs a replacement at the 20 to 25-year mark. You may want to install a more reliable metal commercial roof that can weather powerful winds.
Chipping and crumbling exterior materials can also clog HVAC units with debris. Make sure the exterior wall next to your outdoor unit is in good shape.
Next, ensure your windows are sealed tight and the glass isn’t vulnerable to breaking during a storm. A reliable tarp should prevent any damage from broken glass. Check your window frames for potential repairs before a big storm; seal up any openings that can cause leaks or pest infestations.
Plan for an HVAC Emergency
Don’t pay the high costs of HVAC storm damage. Follow this guide as you prepare your HVAC units, installation, wiring, interior, and outdoor surroundings. Make sure to call a professional if you have any concerns about HVAC safety.
Mission Air Services wants to help you prepare for any HVAC emergency. Learn why small business owners in Plant City, FL depend on our commercial HVAC services. Routine maintenance is key!
We’re a team of HVAC professionals who care about creating comfortable spaces for customers and employees. Contact us to learn more or book an appointment today!