It seems every year, more people in the Chatham and Windsor area are dealing with the aftermath of flooding and the destruction it’s caused to homes — especially basements. During stormy weather and flooding, there are safety hazards concerning your heating and cooling systems, so protect HVAC equipment and keep your family safe during heavy rainfalls.

Most of the HVAC equipment for a home is found in the basement and will likely come into contact with water in the case of a flooded basement. To help safeguard your family, remember to take the following steps before a major flood hits:

Immediately Before the Storm Hits

• Turn off the breakers to your air conditioner or heat pump and indoor air handler or gas furnace.
• Turn off the gas supply to a gas furnace.
• Check your outdoor unit (condenser) to see that it is secure in case of high winds, and cover the unit to protect it from flying debris.

After the Flooding
If your basement flooded and you weren’t able to turn off the power to the equipment, do not enter the basement until the flood water has receded. In addition, please don’t turn on any HVAC equipment that has been flooded until it’s been inspected by a professional technician.

In some instances, HVAC equipment can be repaired after a flood, but in other circumstances, it will need to be replaced. Hot water heaters that have been flooded will always need to be replaced and any type of propane heating should be inspected as soon as possible to have the valves and controls replaced. The best way to determine if your equipment needs to be replaced or repaired is to contact a certified heating and cooling specialist.

Fahrhall Home Comfort Specialists are fully licensed and trained to perform all of your plumbing installations and inspections to ensure that your backwater preventer is functioning and will prevent sewage from flooding your home.

Contact us today to learn more.

At Fahrhall, we’re determined to provide the best in quality service, products and installation for all of our customers. Our fully-licensed professionals are prepared to perform all of your plumbing and home comfort system needs.