If you’ve lived in Florida for more than a minute, you know how brutal the heat and humidity can be, especially after a hurricane knocks out the power. While most storm prep advice covers food, water, and windows, your air conditioning system also needs attention before the next big storm rolls through.
Whether it’s safeguarding your unit from wind damage or prepping for post-storm repairs, a little AC preparation can save you from expensive repairs and a lot of sweaty, sleepless nights.
At Mac 5 Services, we help Florida homeowners keep their homes comfortable all year long, even in storm season. Here’s how to get your AC system ready for hurricane season and what to do if a storm leaves you without cool air.
1. Shut Off Your AC Before the Storm Hits
Once a hurricane warning is issued for your area, it’s important to turn off your AC system at the thermostat and at the breaker. Why?
- Power surges can fry the internal components
- Lightning strikes can cause permanent damage
- Flying debris could jam the fan blades if it’s still running
It might feel uncomfortable in the short term, but shutting down your system protects it from major damage and makes it easier to safely restart once the storm passes.
Tip: Also turn off any window or portable AC units to protect them from the same risks.
2. Secure and Cover Your Outdoor AC Unit
Your outdoor condenser unit is built to withstand Florida weather, but not hurricane-force winds or flying debris. Before the storm:
- Tie it down with hurricane straps or brackets
- Place a manufacturer-approved cover over the unit (don’t use a tarp or plastic bag, it can trap moisture)
- Clear away outdoor furniture, grills, and loose items nearby that could damage the unit
Hurricane straps are often required in Florida for new installations, but if your older unit isn’t secured, Mac 5 can help you upgrade your setup before storm season arrives.
3. Raise or Flood-Proof Your AC If You’re in a Flood Zone
In many parts of Florida, flooding is just as dangerous as high winds. If your outdoor unit sits on or near ground level and your home is in a flood-prone area, consider:
- Elevating your condenser on a concrete or composite platform
- Installing a flood barrier or water deflector around the base
- Adding a drainage trench or gravel bed to improve runoff
Floodwaters can destroy the electrical components inside your condenser and require a total replacement, not cheap. An ounce of prevention goes a long way.
4. Schedule a Pre-Storm Maintenance Check
Hurricane season officially starts on June 1st, so spring is the perfect time to schedule your AC maintenance visit. This service includes:
- Inspecting and tightening electrical connections
- Checking refrigerant levels
- Cleaning condenser coils
- Ensuring drainage is working properly
- Verifying thermostat and sensor function
A well-maintained system is less likely to break down when you need it most, and more likely to survive a storm intact.
Need to book yours? Mac 5 Services offers seasonal AC tune-ups for Florida homeowners, ask us about scheduling today!
5. Use a Surge Protector or Disconnect Switch
Just like your electronics and appliances, your HVAC system is vulnerable to power surges, especially when power flickers off and on during a storm. Consider:
- Installing a dedicated HVAC surge protector on your unit
- Adding a disconnect switch near your outdoor condenser for manual shutoff
- Using a whole-home surge protector for layered defense
Surge protection is relatively inexpensive and can save you thousands in potential repairs or replacements.
6. Be Cautious When Turning the AC Back On
Once the storm has passed, wait until you’ve confirmed it’s safe to turn your AC back on:
- Inspect the outdoor unit for visible damage or debris
- Check power lines and breakers before restoring power
- Clear away branches, leaves, or flood debris from around the unit
- Smell or listen for anything unusual when you restart it, burning smells, strange noises, or poor airflow are all red flags
If you’re not 100% sure your system is okay, don’t take a chance, call Mac 5 to inspect it first.
7. Have a Backup Cooling Plan for After the Storm
Let’s face it: power outages are common after hurricanes in Florida. Sometimes they last for hours, sometimes for days. If you rely on your AC to stay cool, plan ahead with these items:
- Battery-powered fans (stock up early!)
- Portable generator (NEVER run it indoors, use it safely outdoors, away from windows)
- Portable or window AC unit that can run on a generator
- Plenty of water to stay hydrated while the AC is off
Remember: heat exhaustion is a serious risk after a storm, especially for kids, seniors, and pets. Keep cool however you can, and know that Mac 5 can help with emergency AC services as soon as roads are clear and it’s safe to travel.
8. Check for Refrigerant Leaks or Drain Blockages
After a major storm, your system may seem “mostly fine,” but still not work properly. Two common issues:
- Refrigerant leaks from damaged coils or fittings
- Clogged drain lines from dirt and debris blown into the unit
Both issues can prevent your AC from cooling your home effectively and can get worse over time if ignored. If your home still feels hot and humid even with the AC running, call a pro to diagnose the problem before it gets worse.
9. Replace or Clean Your Air Filter
After a storm, your AC filter may be full of dust, debris, or biological growth especially if the system ran briefly during or after the storm. A dirty filter:
- Reduces airflow
- Lowers cooling efficiency
- Increases strain on your system
- Can cause indoor air quality issues
Replace or clean your filter after any major storm to keep your system running smoothly.
10. Need Help? Call Mac 5 Services, Your Local Florida AC Experts
Hurricanes are stressful enough. You shouldn’t have to worry about whether your air conditioning system will survive the storm. At Mac 5 Services, we help Florida homeowners get their AC systems storm-ready and we’re here for you after the storm too.
Whether you need:
- A pre-season AC tune-up
- Surge protection installed
- Post-storm inspection or repair
- A full system replacement after damage
We’re just a phone call away. Our licensed, insured HVAC technicians know Florida homes and we respond quickly when you need us most.
📞 Call Mac 5 Services at 321-244-7500 or visit www.Mac5services.com to schedule your AC hurricane prep today.
Breathe Easy, Even After the Storm
Florida’s weather can be wild, but with the right AC prep in place, you can stay cool, safe, and stress-free before and after the storm. A few small steps now can save you major headaches later.
Have questions or concerns about your AC system? Reach out to Mac 5 Services. We’re here to keep your cool, rain or shine.
