Summer in Goodfield can bring more than just hot afternoons and high humidity. Strong storms are common, and while most homeowners focus on securing windows and moving patio furniture out of the way, the outdoor air conditioning unit is often left unprotected. These units are built to handle the elements, but when faced with flying debris, power surges, or fallen branches, they can take serious damage that leads to performance problems or full system breakdowns.
Preparing your AC unit for summer storms is not just about staying cool. It is about avoiding costly repairs, long downtimes, and the stress of an unexpected system failure. A few simple steps taken before and after each storm can make a meaningful difference in the life and performance of your system. Below are practical ways to help you protect your AC during storm season in Goodfield, starting with the outdoor unit.
Inspect and Secure the Outdoor Unit
The outdoor unit is the most exposed part of the AC system. After a storm passes, inspect the area carefully for any damage. Branches, leaves, or small objects may have landed near or inside it. Ignoring this debris can restrict airflow and overheat your system. If you notice anything blocking the vents or sitting on top of the unit, remove it right away. Do not attempt to open the unit yourself—leave that to our professionals.
Securing the unit can reduce the risk of displacement during high winds. Installing protective brackets or straps helps keep the unit in place on its base. Before the storm season, make sure to clear the area around the unit to avoid damage. Keep at least two feet of open space on all sides by trimming plants and moving any loose objects like chairs or tools.
Here is a simple checklist:
1. Check the unit after every storm for visible damage or wiring issues.
2. Remove all debris nearby or on the unit.
3. Consider anchoring the base platform to prevent shifting.
4. Trim vegetation and clear the area of potential airborne items.
5. Do not attempt repairs—schedule a professional inspection if needed.
Staying on top of visual inspections after storms helps catch issues early. It also gives our technicians a better chance to address wear or impact damage before it becomes a major problem.
Install Surge Protection for Long-Term Safety
Summer storms are known for bringing more than heavy winds. They can affect the home’s electrical system and lead to dangerous surges. A lightning strike or even a temporary voltage spike can overload your AC’s control board or compressor, possibly shutting the system down entirely.
Installing surge protection for your AC helps limit this risk. Unlike common outlet-style surge protectors, HVAC surge protection devices are installed directly in your home’s electrical panel or at the outdoor condenser. These are built to shield sensitive components from extra voltage that storms can cause.
If your current AC system is not protected, ask about having a technician review it. Our technicians can recommend the right type of surge protector and install it safely. Without this layer of protection, one strong storm can leave you with a non-working system during the hottest time of year.
Surge protection requires a one-time installation and protects your system from costly failures. In weather-prone locations like Goodfield, it adds confidence that your cooling system is less likely to be affected by electrical surges.
Stay Ahead with Regular Maintenance Checks
Preventive maintenance plays a big part in keeping your system working through the storm season. AC units in Goodfield run under a lot of stress during the summer. High humidity, heat, and storms can lead to inefficient performance or flat-out failure.
Routine maintenance helps make sure your system runs smoothly and efficiently, even under tough conditions. Key areas to focus on include dirty filters, clogged coils, and electrical components. When filters are blocked, the system has to work harder than it should. Coils that are gunked up cannot cool air properly. Loose wiring mixed with moisture also increases the risk of system issues.
By scheduling a maintenance visit before storm season, you allow our professionals to clean and inspect trouble areas before they lead to bigger problems. You will have peace of mind knowing the system is well-prepared, the condensation lines are clear, and parts are working as they should.
If your AC has suddenly shut down or struggled with airflow in past summers, regular maintenance now can prevent those issues from returning when you need cooling most.
Cover the AC Unit Safely When Storms Hit
Another way to help protect your outdoor unit is by covering it properly during severe weather. Sudden storms can bring trash, broken branches, or other flying debris straight toward your condenser. While AC units are built for outdoor use, protecting them during intense storms helps avoid direct hits by sharp or heavy objects.
It is important to use a breathable cover made especially for AC condensers. Avoid plastic tarps or covers that trap moisture. These increase the risk of rust or mold forming inside the unit. Use the cover only when a storm is expected and remove it as soon as it is safe. Never run your AC with a cover on.
Keep these reminders in mind:
1. Use a purpose-built, breathable cover when strong winds are in the forecast.
2. Avoid plastic sheeting or tarps that do not allow airflow.
3. Remove the cover promptly after the storm ends.
4. Never operate the unit while a cover is in place.
5. Inspect the unit before turning it back on.
This extra step gives your AC the chance to make it through harsh weather with less risk of damage.
Get Help with a Professional Inspection
Even if everything looks fine from the outside, having the system checked by our professionals after heavy storm activity is a smart idea. Many electrical and mechanical problems may not show visible signs right away. Moisture or impact stress might weaken parts slowly and lead to failure days or weeks later.
A professional inspection covers more ground than your everyday maintenance habits. Our technicians will look closely at internal components, refrigerant levels, electrical connections, and drain flow. They can also check for signs of wear that may not be visible to the untrained eye.
During the inspection, our team will run performance tests, evaluate your system’s cooling ability, and review any error codes. Preventive adjustments will be made to reduce long-term wear and help extend the lifespan of the unit.
For homes in Goodfield, where quick-changing conditions are normal each summer, skipping this kind of review can lead to much bigger repairs in the weeks following a storm.
Make Your AC Storm-Ready All Season Long
Protecting your AC in Goodfield during storm season does not have to be complicated. Simple steps—inspecting the unit, installing surge protection, conducting regular maintenance, and using proper covers—can make a real difference in system reliability and cooling performance.
Putting in a bit of time before the weather strikes will save time, money, and discomfort when summer is at its peak. Every step taken ahead of time helps limit the risk of complete system failure and keeps your home comfortable no matter what the forecast holds.
A well-maintained AC system can handle unpredictable weather far better than one that has been neglected. Scheduling inspections, clearing away debris after storms, and adding proper protections will help you avoid unwanted breakdowns when your comfort depends on it.
Keep your cooling system operating at peak performance with reliable AC maintenance in Goodfield to help reduce wear and avoid unexpected summer breakdowns. Hinrichsen Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. is here to inspect, clean, and maintain your unit so your home stays comfortable all season long. For a quick estimate or to book a service visit, please contact us today.
