As a Texan you know that you have to protect your AC. You need to be prepared for extremes—from scorching summers to sudden thunderstorms and hurricanes. Along with high winds and heavy rain, these storms often bring power surges and outages that can wreak havoc on your air conditioning system.
Your AC is one of the most expensive systems in your home—repairing or replacing it after a surge can cost thousands. The good news? With the right precautions, you can keep your system safe during Texas storms.
⚡ Step 1: Install a Surge Protector to help protect your AC
Power surges, caused by lightning or grid fluctuations, can fry sensitive HVAC components like the compressor or control board.
- Whole-home surge protectors offer the best protection.
- Dedicated AC surge protectors are affordable and easy to install.
- Some Texas homeowners insurance plans may even require surge protection.
The U.S. Department of Energy recommends using surge protectors to safeguard major appliances against sudden power spikes.
🌀 Step 2: Shut Down Your AC During Severe Storms
When severe weather is predicted, turn off your AC system at the thermostat and breaker. This prevents damage from:
- Lightning strikes on outdoor units.
- Sudden restarts when power flickers.
- Overheating motors after outages.
The Texas Department of State Health Services also advises homeowners to unplug appliances and HVAC systems during major storms to avoid electrical hazards.
🔧 Step 3: Schedule Regular Maintenance
A system that’s well-maintained is more resilient. Regular inspections can catch issues like frayed wiring, weak capacitors, or loose connections that make your AC more vulnerable during outages. This can help to prevent those annoying outages after one of our spectacular Texas storms!
👉 Stay ahead of storm season by scheduling your AC tune-up with The Duct Guys.
🌬 Step 4: Wait Before Restarting After an Outage
Once the power comes back, don’t rush to turn on your AC immediately. Instead:
- Wait 5–10 minutes to allow grid voltage to stabilize.
- Check your breaker and thermostat before restarting.
- Listen for unusual noises when the system starts up.
The American Red Cross recommends staggering appliance restarts after an outage to reduce stress on the electrical system.
🏠 Step 5: Consider Backup Power
Texas homeowners are increasingly turning to backup solutions like:
- Portable generators for short-term outages. (When paired with a Soft Start kit many AC units can be run with an appropriately sized portable generator.)
- Whole-home standby generators for longer blackouts.
- Battery backup systems paired with solar panels for renewable reliability.
These options not only keep your AC safe but also provide comfort during Texas heatwaves when outages hit.
❓ FAQ: AC Protection During Texas Storms
1. Can a power surge damage my AC?
Yes. Surges can destroy sensitive electronics like compressors and control boards, leading to costly repairs.
2. Should I turn off my AC before a storm?
Yes. Turning it off at the thermostat and breaker protects it from sudden surges and restarts.
3. How long should I wait to restart my AC after an outage?
At least 5–10 minutes, to allow the grid to stabilize and avoid further damage.
4. Is a surge protector really necessary?
Absolutely. A $100 surge protector can save you from a $5,000 compressor replacement.
5. How can I make my AC more reliable during storm season?
Regular maintenance, duct inspections, and installing surge protection are the best steps.
✅ Final Word
Texas storms and power outages are unpredictable, but AC damage doesn’t have to be. By investing in surge protection, shutting your system down before severe weather, and following safe restart practices, you can protect your home’s most important comfort system.
👉 Don’t wait for the next storm—book your AC service with The Duct Guys today.
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