Post-Storm HVAC Checklist: A Homeowner's Guide

Inspecting your HVAC system after a major storm is crucial for safety and to assess potential damage. While some checks can be done by a homeowner, it's highly recommended to call a certified HVAC professional for a thorough inspection if your system was exposed to strong winds, water, or debris.

Here's a step-by-step guide for homeowners to visually inspect their HVAC system after a tornado, along with crucial safety warnings:

CRITICAL SAFETY WARNINGS BEFORE YOU START:

• Do NOT enter your home if it's not declared safe by authorities or if you smell gas or see floodwaters around the building.

• Do NOT turn on your HVAC system if it was submerged in water or you suspect electrical damage. Water and electricity are a dangerous mix.

• Turn off all power to your HVAC system at the circuit breaker before you begin any visual inspection of the units (both indoor and outdoor).

• Be aware of downed power lines and report them to 911 or your utility company immediately. Stay clear of them.

• Wear appropriate safety gear: Gloves, sturdy shoes, and potentially a dust mask if there's a lot of debris.

• If you smell gas (like rotten eggs) or hear a hissing sound, evacuate immediately, call 911 from a safe distance, and then call your gas company.

Homeowner HVAC Inspection Checklist (Visual Only):

1. Inspect the Outdoor Unit (Condenser/Heat Pump):

• Visible Damage: Look for any dents, cracks, bent fins (the thin metal slats), or other signs of physical damage to the unit's casing. Strong winds or flying debris can cause this.

• Debris: Carefully remove any leaves, branches, trash, or other large debris from around and on top of the unit. Ensure the area around the unit is clear for airflow (typically 2-3 feet in all directions).

• Leveling: Check if the unit has shifted or been blown off its concrete pad or base. If it's tilted or moved, it indicates potential damage to the refrigerant lines or electrical connections.

• Refrigerant Lines: Inspect the copper lines (lineset) that run from the outdoor unit to your home. Look for kinks, dents, or signs of leakage (e.g., oily residue).

• Electrical Disconnect: Check the electrical whip (the conduit with wires) leading into the unit. Look for any exposed or frayed wires, or signs of burning or charring.

• Flooding: If the outdoor unit was submerged in water, do NOT attempt to turn it on. It needs professional inspection for internal water damage.

2. Inspect the Indoor Unit (Furnace/Air Handler):

• Water Damage: If your basement, crawl space, or utility closet was flooded, check your furnace or air handler for any signs of water damage, rust, or mud. If it was submerged, do not turn it on.

• Air Filter: Inspect the air filter. If it's wet, clogged with debris, or shows signs of mold, replace it immediately. A wet filter can restrict airflow and encourage mold growth.

• Ductwork: Visually inspect accessible ductwork for any loose connections, tears, dents, or signs of water intrusion or mold. High winds can cause ductwork to become disconnected.

• Pilot Light (for gas furnaces): If you have a gas furnace and can safely access it, check if the pilot light is lit (if applicable for your model). If not, and you've turned off the gas, do not attempt to relight it until cleared by a professional.

• Electrical Connections: Look for any visible damage to wiring and connections around the indoor unit or furnace.

3. Check the Thermostat:

• Physical Damage: Inspect the thermostat for any visible physical damage.

• Display: If power is restored (and it's safe to do so), check if the display is working correctly.

• Settings: Ensure the settings haven't reset.

4. Electrical System Check:

• Circuit Breaker: Check your home's main electrical panel. If the breaker for your HVAC system is tripped, leave it off for now. Do NOT reset it if you found water damage or suspect electrical issues with the unit. A tripped breaker can indicate a power surge that damaged components.

• Burn Marks: Look for any scorch marks around outlets, the electrical disconnect box, or the main breaker panel.

5. After Visual Inspection, If No Obvious Damage and Safe:

• Restore Power: Once you've completed all visual checks and are confident there's no water or major electrical damage, restore power to the HVAC system at the circuit breaker.

• Test System: Turn on your system (e.g., set to cool) and monitor its operation.

  • Listen for any unusual noises (grinding, rattling, banging).

  • Check for proper airflow from vents.

  • See if the unit cycles on and off normally.

  • Monitor for any strange smells (burning, mildew, gas).

When to Call a Professional (Always recommended after a major storm):

You should always contact a certified HVAC technician for a professional inspection if:

• Your HVAC unit was submerged in water.

• There's any visible damage to the outdoor or indoor units, refrigerant lines, or electrical components.

• The unit was blown off its pad or significantly shifted.

• You hear unusual noises when the system runs.

• You smell burning, mold, or any unusual odors.

• The circuit breaker keeps tripping when you try to turn the system on.

• You have any doubts about the system's safety or functionality.

If you suspect your HVAC system is damaged by a storm, call us today to schedule a comprehensive inspection, check refrigerant levels, electrical components, internal parts, and ensure your system is running safely and efficiently. Your homeowner's insurance policy may cover the cost of storm damage and our professional inspection. We have extensive experience working with both insurance and warranty companies on getting homeowners' units up and running again.