Prepare Your Home's AC, Plumbing, Electrical for a Hurricane

When a hurricane is approaching Bradenton, preparation is everything. Beyond stocking supplies and boarding windows, your home’s mechanical systems need attention too.

Air Conditioning

Turn off your AC before the storm. During a hurricane, debris can damage the outdoor condenser unit. After the storm, inspect the unit for damage before restarting. Never run a wet or visibly damaged unit.

Plumbing

Know how to shut off your main water supply valve. If flooding is expected, turn off the water at the main valve to prevent contaminated water from entering your pipes. After the storm, watch for signs of pipe damage or unusual discoloration in tap water.

Electrical

If flooding threatens your home, turn off the electricity at the main breaker. Never operate electrical equipment in standing water. Have an electrical contractor inspect your home’s electrical system after any flooding before restoring power.

A Few Things to Check Early

Find your main water shutoff before you need it, and make sure it actually turns. Valves that haven’t been touched in years can seize, and a plumber can replace one that won’t close. Make sure outlets in the garage and outdoor areas have working GFCI protection; if you’re not sure, an electrician can check, along with an older panel that worries you. Our electrical services page covers both, and our hurricane preparation guide has the full checklist.

Generator Readiness

Test your standby generator before storm season starts. Make sure it starts automatically and runs properly. Contact Air & Energy at 941-778-0773 for pre-hurricane system inspections, or read about standby generator installation.