In 2019, the most common home repair for Floridians was air conditioning repair. Across the U.S., Florida also had more HVAC repairs than any other state.
It’s not just bad luck. Extreme temperatures and high winds are to blame. In other words, air conditioning repairs are common in Florida because of the weather.
The question is, what are the specific ways weather can affect your HVAC system?
Here, you can learn how the weather can affect your heating and air unit, so you can prevent some of the damage before it happens.
Extremely Hot Temperatures
Florida is famous for its hot and humid weather, which is why air conditioning is a necessity. However, extremely hot temperatures are tough on your AC unit. Your system has to work hard to keep your home cool.
Your air conditioning works by using an outdoor condenser to release heat outside. It sends the hot air outside and cools the inside of your home. During very hot weather, the system may struggle to keep up, which is when breakdowns happen.
To prevent these issues, get a yearly tune-up and remember to change the filter. This will keep your HVAC system from working harder than it needs to.
Rainstorms
During hurricane season, heavy rains and floods are possible. While you may worry about your home and garden, all that rain can affect your air conditioning unit.
While your outdoor unit is designed to stand up to the weather, standing water is a different story. If you notice flooding near your outdoor unit or see lightning, it’s best to power down your system.
You’ll be able to protect your HVAC system from an electrical surge, which can lead to expensive repairs.
High Winds
Windy days can also impact your HVAC system. Flying debris like tree limbs, sticks, or garden rocks can damage your outdoor unit.
This debris can block the outside of your unit and make it less efficient. If you notice any grass or plants blocking the unit, gently clear them away. If you notice any dents or damage to your outdoor unit, you should call for repairs.
Flying debris can also bend the fins, which are the thin pieces of metal on the outside of your unit. Bent fins can make your AC less efficient. Luckily, a technician can straighten them out with a special tool or repair broken fins.
It’s also a good idea to secure loose items like lawn chairs before high winds. This can protect your AC unit from damage.
Prevent Heating and Air Conditioning Issues Before They Happen
While extreme temperatures, rain, or high winds might be inevitable, HVAC issues don’t have to be. The best way to prevent issues with your heating and air conditioning unit is to get regular maintenance.
During a preventative tune-up, your service tech can spot minor HVAC issues before they turn into major ones.
If you’re looking for high-quality HVAC maintenance in the Destin area, Murphy’s Home Services can help. Contact us today to book a service call.
