Protect Your Home's HVAC and Plumbing During Extreme Weather Events

Extreme weather events like heavy snow, ice storms, floods, and heatwaves are happening more often. These conditions can cause serious damage to your home's HVAC and plumbing systems. Taking steps to protect these systems can save you from costly repairs and keep your home comfortable and safe. This guide offers practical tips to prepare your HVAC and plumbing for harsh weather, helping you avoid common problems and maintain home efficiency.

Outdoor HVAC unit covered in snow and ice, showing winter weather impact

Winter Storm Preparation for HVAC

Cold weather can freeze pipes and strain heating systems. To protect your home:

• Prevent frozen pipes by insulating exposed plumbing, especially in basements, attics, and crawl spaces. Use foam pipe sleeves or heat tape.

• Check your heating system before winter hits. Replace filters, test your thermostat, and schedule a professional inspection to ensure the furnace or heat pump works efficiently.

• Insulate outdoor HVAC equipment like heat pumps or air conditioners. Use breathable covers designed for HVAC units to prevent ice damage without trapping moisture.

• Seal drafts around windows, doors, and vents to keep warm air inside and reduce heating costs.

  
  

These steps reduce the risk of frozen pipes bursting and keep your heating system reliable during cold snaps.

Heavy Rain and Flood Prevention for Plumbing

Flooding and heavy rain can cause leaks and water damage. Protect your plumbing with these tips:

• Maintain your sump pump by testing it regularly and cleaning the pit. Consider a battery backup in case of power outages.

• Inspect plumbing for leaks around water heaters, boilers, and exposed pipes. Fix small leaks promptly to avoid bigger problems during storms.

• Elevate water heaters and boilers if your home is prone to flooding. Placing them on platforms reduces the chance of water damage.

• Clear gutters and downspouts to direct rainwater away from your foundation and prevent basement flooding.

  
  

Taking these precautions helps prevent water heater damage during floods and keeps your plumbing system secure.

Summer Heatwave Readiness for HVAC

High temperatures put extra pressure on air conditioning systems. Prepare your HVAC for heatwaves by:

• Checking refrigerant levels to ensure your AC cools effectively. Low refrigerant can cause breakdowns and higher energy bills.

• Cleaning or replacing air filters monthly during summer to maintain airflow and system efficiency.

• Clearing debris around outdoor units like leaves and grass to keep airflow optimal.

• Scheduling a professional tune-up before summer to catch issues early and improve cooling performance.

  
  

These actions reduce the chance of AC breakdowns and keep your home comfortable during heatwaves.

Emergency Checklist for Extreme Weather

Before, during, and after extreme weather, follow this checklist to reduce damage and repair costs:

• Before: Inspect HVAC and plumbing, secure outdoor equipment, stock emergency supplies, and know how to shut off water and power.

• During: Monitor weather updates, avoid using outdoor faucets, keep indoor temperatures stable, and watch for leaks or unusual noises.

• After: Check for damage, dry wet areas quickly, run your HVAC system to prevent mold, and call a professional if you notice problems.

  
  

Having a clear plan helps you respond quickly and protect your home’s systems.

Proactive Maintenance Plans

Regular maintenance is key to preventing weather-related failures. Consider:

• Scheduling seasonal HVAC inspections to catch wear and tear before storms.

• Hiring professionals for plumbing checks to identify weak spots or corrosion.

• Installing smart thermostats and leak detectors to monitor system performance and alert you to issues early.

• Keeping records of maintenance and repairs to track system health and plan upgrades.

  
  

A proactive approach saves money and keeps your home storm-ready year-round. Enroll in one of our service plans to actively maintain your systems.