Severe storms in Michigan tend to happen between June and September. It’s crucial to take preventative measures to help protect your yard and outdoor HVAC condenser unit. Once you complete some basic tasks, your property and equipment will be better prepared to withstand high winds, heavy rain, and flying debris.
Do Regular Self-Inspections
Conducting regular self-inspections lets you monitor your property and condenser so you notice potential problems sooner. Identifying and addressing issues early prevents them from worsening into severe, costly ones. For example, if you notice a large crack in your condenser pad, you should contact us to schedule an appointment. We can assess the condenser to see if there’s any damage and determine if the pad needs replacing.
You should continue conducting self-inspections monthly. It’s also ideal to check your yard and condenser after every storm to make sure there’s no damage. Wait until the storm passes and the skies are clear before going outside.
Clear Greenery From Around Your Condenser
There should be at least five feet of vertical clearance and two feet of horizontal clearance around your condenser. Any obstructions can disrupt airflow. Remove any greenery, such as ivy or grass, before it can grow into the unit. Periodically check it to make sure you keep removing the vegetation.
Create a Storm Plan for Outdoor Items
Storms can change course at any moment, which means you need to be prepared. Establish a plan for what to do with your outdoor items, such as patio furniture, if there’s a serious storm in the forecast. For example, you can bring outdoor furniture into the garage, take planters indoors, and cover the sprinkler system.
Establishing a plan prevents you from having to scramble at the last minute, trying to figure out what to do. Make sure everyone else in your household knows what to do and where the items go in case you’re not home. If necessary, write the plan down so everyone has easy access to it.
Hire an Arborist and Landscaper
A landscaper and arborist can help you better protect your home, property, and condenser. For instance, a landscaper can evaluate the grading of your yard and determine if it can benefit from changes. Additionally, they may recommend strategically placed plants and hardscaping that can help reduce the chances of water damage and intrusion into your home.
An arborist is just the expert you want to speak to about your trees. They can assess the trees’ condition and determine if they’re at risk for falling on your property or home during a storm. They’ll also evaluate if any branches are weak enough that they could snap off and land on your home or condenser.
Once they complete their inspection, they’ll report their findings to you and recommend the next steps. If they suggest that you should have any trees or branches cut down, take care of it as soon as possible. This is particularly important before the next storm arrives to prevent any dangers or damage.
Schedule an HVAC Inspection
Booking an HVAC inspection offers numerous benefits, including that we can assess your outdoor condenser. We’ll make sure it’s in good condition, check the pad, and make recommendations for how to better protect the unit.
During the spring appointment, we’ll perform other tasks to prepare your system for the cooling season. For instance, our technicians will conduct a thorough inspection. Additional tasks include cleaning components, lubricating moving parts, assessing electrical wiring, and checking refrigerant levels. Before leaving, we test the system to ensure it’s working safely and optimally. If we notice any problems, we’ll recommend repairs or a replacement.
Install a Condenser Cage
Although condensers are designed to withstand the elements, they’re not indestructible. A condenser cage helps protect the unit from flying debris during a storm. It’s also beneficial for keeping young kids at a safe distance. Additionally, the cage provides a barrier to keep pets far enough away that they won’t urinate on the unit. Over time, urine can significantly damage the condenser, such as causing corrosion.
The cages allow proper airflow and still grant access to both you and HVAC technicians when needed. They’re available in various styles, colors, and sizes, so you can easily choose one that best meets your needs and preferences.
Schedule Repairs and Upgrades
Severe storms can occur anytime, even before storm season begins. Start preparing as early as possible so your yard, condenser, and home are ready by the time the first one arrives. Schedule any necessary repairs and upgrades promptly so there’s plenty of time to spare.
While you can perform self-inspections and should check your outdoor unit after every storm, you should never attempt HVAC repairs or upgrades on your own, even if you feel it might save you money. This could have serious repercussions, including personal injury like electric shock. You may also cause further damage to your system, such as fraying the wiring or breaking a component. Additionally, you might void the manufacturer’s warranty. They usually include terms that state that professionals must perform any necessary service. DIY attempts may result in you having to pay for future repairs out of pocket.
Stock Emergency Supplies
Two items you should have in your emergency arsenal are sandbags and flood barriers. You can put them almost anywhere, including in front of the condenser and the entrances to your home. While you’re storing them, put them in an area where they’ll stay in good condition and won’t get holes.
If you have planted greenery or young trees you want to protect, buy plant protector kits that you can use to minimize wind and rain damage. You should also determine what to do with heavy items you may not be able to bring indoors, like a grill. Purchase adequate protection that’s easy to set up if a storm is on the way.
Take Before Pictures and Videos
Take pre-storm pictures and videos of your Michigan yard and condenser, especially after making repairs or upgrades. If storm damage occurs, they can serve as proof to your insurance carrier that you took preventive measures to protect your property. Scan any hard-copy receipts of upgrades or repairs and email them to yourself along with the videos and photos. This makes them easily accessible and ready to go if you need to email them to your carrier.
Taking steps now to prepare your yard and outdoor condenser can save you significant stress, money, and time. Matheson Heating Air Plumbing in Commerce Township, MI, offers dependable HVAC inspections, repairs, installation, and maintenance services to local homeowners.
Call Matheson today or schedule an appointment on our website.