Florida homeowners know the drill—when storm season rolls in, it’s all about protecting your home, family, and property. While most people board windows and stock up on batteries, they often overlook one critical system: their HVAC unit.
At Freedom Air Conditioning in Auburndale, FL, we’ve seen the damage storms can do to outdoor AC systems. From flying debris to lightning strikes, your HVAC needs protection—especially if you live in Winter Haven, Bartow, Lakeland, or other nearby areas.
Here’s your step-by-step guide to storm-proofing your HVAC system.
🌀 Why Storm-Proofing Matters in Central Florida
Polk County residents experience multiple threats each storm season:
- High winds
- Flying debris
- Flooding
- Lightning and power surges
If your HVAC unit is exposed, you risk:
- Compressor or fan damage
- Complete system failure
- Expensive repair or replacement
- Insurance claim headaches
Just one strong storm in Haines City or Lake Alfred can cost thousands in HVAC repairs—unless you’re prepared.
🧰 Step 1: Install a Protective Cage or Hurricane Bracket
Your outdoor AC unit is built tough, but not hurricane-tough.
Add a protective cage or hurricane bracket kit around the unit. These are designed to:
- Prevent tipping or shifting during high winds
- Keep flying branches or trash from damaging the coils or fan blades
- Add stability during flood conditions
Make sure it’s installed by a licensed HVAC contractor so it doesn’t interfere with airflow or void your warranty.
🌧️ Step 2: Elevate the Unit (If Flooding Is a Risk)
If your home is in a low-lying area like parts of Eagle Lake or Dundee, you should seriously consider elevating your HVAC system.
We recommend placing the unit on:
- A concrete pad at least 6–12 inches above ground level
- A custom platform designed for flood zones
This protects vital components from water damage and can help your system survive even if your yard temporarily floods.
⚡ Step 3: Install a Surge Protector
Florida is the lightning capital of the U.S., and your HVAC is one of the most vulnerable systems.
A whole-home surge protector or dedicated HVAC surge device will:
- Protect your compressor and control board from voltage spikes
- Prevent immediate or delayed failure after storms
- Extend the lifespan of your equipment
Pro tip: ask Freedom Air Conditioning about adding surge protection during your next tune-up—it’s a small upgrade that prevents major headaches.
🪛 Step 4: Shut It Down Before the Storm Hits
If a hurricane or tropical storm is approaching, you should:
- Turn off the system at the thermostat
- Flip the breaker switch for the HVAC system
- Cover the outdoor unit with a fitted tarp or manufacturer-approved storm cover
This prevents damage from power surges, flying debris, and sudden restarts if power is lost and restored.
Remember: don’t operate the system while covered—remove any covers before turning it back on.
🔄 Step 5: Schedule Post-Storm Inspection
Even if your HVAC seems fine after the storm passes, internal damage could still exist—especially in the condenser fan, electronics, or refrigerant lines.
Let a certified technician:
- Check electrical connections
- Clear out debris from the unit
- Test refrigerant levels
- Run a system diagnostic
This is especially important if your home is in areas like Lakeland Highlands, Polk City, or the Auburndale countryside, where storms may be more intense or unpredictable.
📍 Freedom Air Conditioning – Your Local HVAC Pros
We’ve been helping homeowners in Auburndale and surrounding areas protect their systems for over a decade. Whether it’s:
- Installing surge protection
- Replacing damaged components
- Elevating vulnerable systems
- Or performing post-storm diagnostics
Our licensed team is here to help.
Freedom Air Conditioning
📍 207 Gandy Rd, Suite B, Auburndale, FL 33823
📞 (863) 229-7058
🌐 www.myfreedomair.net
Is your HVAC storm-ready? Don’t wait until a hurricane warning hits.
Call Freedom Air Conditioning today at (863) 229-7058 or visit www.myfreedomair.net to schedule a storm-readiness inspection or ask about surge protection and hurricane brackets.
Stay cool. Stay protected. Stay local.
