WARNING: SYSTEM POWERING DOWN!
How to protect your AC unit during a storm:
When summer hits in southeast Georgia, that also means storm and hurricane season. Over the last couple of weeks, we have seen an increase in power surges due to inclement weather. Many of our customers are asking how they can protect their HVAC (air conditioning units) from being affected during this weather and the power surges associated with them. The answer is not popular: turn the HVAC unit off either at the thermostat or even better, at the breaker.
What is a power surge?
A power surge is a brief spike in voltage as it passes through electrical lines. This could cause damage to many electrical appliances because a surge transmits more power than the appliances can manage. The best way to avoid overloading appliances with too much power is to turn them off completely.
What are some common causes of power surges?
During the summertime, the most common causes are:
- Lightning Storms
- Power Outages
- Downed Power Lines
What are parts of your HVAC unit that could be affected by power surges?
- Capacitor
- Circuit Board
- Motor
- Contactor
- Compressor
- Relay