The 2022 Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June 1 until November 30.

For the seventh year in a row, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is predicting an “above-normal” season with 14 to 21 named storms. Of those, 6 to 10 will likely become hurricanes (storms become hurricanes when wind speeds reach 74 mph) and 3 to 6 of them will probably become “major" hurricanes. Storms are considered “major” hurricanes (category 3 or higher) when sustained winds reach 111 mph.

If you live in Florida, there’s a good chance you have a routine you break into when there’s a hurricane barreling towards Florida. You bring in patio furniture and any other “projectiles”, you stock up on food and water, maybe fill up the tank. You know the drill, but what about your air conditioning system?

These tips will help keep you comfortable during the storm and protect your AC from damage:

1. Check the bolts and straps that secure the outdoor AC unit to the concrete slab for any signs of rust or deterioration that could make the unit vulnerable to high winds.
2. Before the storm, bring in outdoor furniture, bird feeders, plants - anything that could become airborne and damage the AC (or anything else for that matter).
3. Turning your AC off during the storm could save you thousands of dollars in repairs. Most electrical damage happens when units are left on during a thunderstorm or hurricane.
4. Cool down your house as much as possible before the storm so you’re comfortable for as long as possible while the AC is turned off.
5. Wait 20 minutes after the storm passes to turn the AC back on. Note that unstable or “dirty” power is most common in the minutes after the power returns.
6. If there is flooding, do not turn the power back on until the unit is dry.

Stay safe this hurricane season and don’t forget to include your AC in your hurricane preparedness plan.

M&S Air Conditioning is committed to providing the most honest, reliable, and affordable residential & commercial air conditioning repair, installation & maintenance service in South Florida.