Hurricane Season: Is Your Myrtle Beach AC Unit Ready?
Last year, Hurricane Matthew hit the Grand Strand pretty hard. Granted it was only a Category 1 hurricane, but damage can still be found in the Myrtle Beach area. This year, Hurricane Harvey blasted the state of Texas, Hurricane Irma demolished parts of Florida and now Hurricane Maria is threatening the east coast. It seems as if each year is getting worse! What exactly does all of this mean for your Myrtle Beach AC unit? Well, we are glad you asked!
The Importance
Keep in mind the value of your air conditioning unit. The national average of a brand new AC unit is between $4,000 and $6,000 with some costing upwards of $10,000. It's important to protect all of your valuable assets when something as destructive as a hurricane comes into town.
Preparation Before The Storm
Air conditioning units are designed to withstand every day life. So when it comes to wind, thunderstorms, loose leaves or extreme heat or cold, no problem. You are fine. When a powerful hurricane is set to sweep through your neck of the woods, please turn off your air conditioner unit. Leaving it on during a hurricane can cause electrical damage because of the constant power interruptions. One second you have power, the next second you don't. Oh wait, it's back again. Nope, it's gone. When you AC unit has to stop and start like that it acts just like your computer would and causes an unprepared shut down and restore.
After The Hurricane Hits
Once the hurricane has completely moved on from the Myrtle Beach area and your power supply is fully in tact, head outside to your AC unit and inspect for any damages that may have occurred. Is the unit clear of debris? Do the blades still spin? If you can answer yes to both of those questions, turn on your air conditioning unit as soon as possible. Letting it sid idle for too long can cause mold to grow in not only your system, but also your ducts. Blasting air through your ducts quickly can ensure that your home doesn't turn into a factory for mold. If you answered no to either of the aforementioned questions, please call Beach Air immediately. We can also help if you unit in underwater or you notice damage to the refrigerant or electrical lines.