HVAC Plumbing

At Buehler Air Conditioning & Plumbing, we’re not just your local HVAC and plumbing experts – we’re your neighbors, committed to helping our Jacksonville community recover after every storm. Living and working in the same neighborhoods as you, we understand the steps it takes and the urgency of getting your home back to normal quickly and efficiently.

With our in-depth knowledge of both HVAC and plumbing systems, we’re fully equipped to tackle any storm-related damage. Whether it’s a flooded air conditioner, clogged drains, or a malfunctioning water heater, our experienced team is ready to restore comfort and functionality to your home. We treat your home with the same care and respect as our own, ensuring you receive timely, high-quality service and the peace of mind you deserve during such a stressful time.

To help you get started, here’s a comprehensive checklist for assessing your HVAC and plumbing systems after a storm. And remember, when you need expert assistance, we’re just a call away.

1. Inspect Your HVAC System for Visible Damage

Strong winds and flying debris can cause significant damage to your HVAC unit, especially the outdoor condenser. After a storm, take a walk around your home and visually inspect the outdoor unit. Look for:

  • Bent or broken fan blades
  • Loose or missing panels
  • Dented or damaged coils
  • Debris such as leaves, branches, or dirt clogging the system

Any physical damage should be addressed immediately by a professional technician. Operating a damaged HVAC unit can lead to more extensive and costly repairs.

2. Check for Water Damage and Flooding

Heavy rain can lead to flooding, which is particularly concerning for both HVAC and plumbing systems. If your outdoor unit was submerged in water, it’s crucial to have it inspected before turning it on. Flooding can damage electrical components, which could result in short circuits, corrosion, or total system failure.

For plumbing systems, flooding can increase the risk of pipe damage, backflow issues, and contamination of your water supply. Check for standing water around your foundation or in crawl spaces, as this can signal potential problems.

3. Examine Your Thermostat and Electrical Connections

Power surges and outages during storms can affect your HVAC system’s electrical components. After the storm has passed, check your thermostat to ensure it’s functioning correctly and displaying the correct temperature. Reset the thermostat if necessary, and if it still doesn’t seem to be working, you may have an issue with the system’s wiring or other electrical components.

If the HVAC system doesn’t turn on after a reset or you notice flickering lights, it’s best to call a professional. Electrical issues can be dangerous, and attempting DIY repairs can put your safety at risk.

4. Assess Air Quality and Ventilation

Storms often bring a lot of moisture into the air, which can significantly affect indoor air quality. High humidity levels can lead to mold growth, especially in areas like ductwork. After a storm, check your home’s humidity levels and ensure your HVAC system is properly ventilating the space. If the air feels damp or musty, it could be a sign that your system isn’t effectively removing moisture.

Consider scheduling an indoor air quality assessment to ensure the air circulating in your home is safe and healthy, especially if you’ve experienced any leaks or water damage.

5. Inspect Plumbing for Leaks or Blockages

Plumbing systems can be especially vulnerable after a storm due to the risk of flooding, blockages, and pressure changes in your pipes. After the storm, do a thorough check of your plumbing by:

  • Inspecting faucets and fixtures for leaks
  • Checking around toilets, sinks, and tubs for any signs of pooling water
  • Running all taps to ensure water pressure is normal
  • Inspecting your outdoor plumbing, including hose bibs and sprinklers, for damage

Storm debris like dirt, leaves, and sand can clog drains, so it’s important to check for blockages. If you notice any slow drainage or standing water, it’s time to call a plumber.

6. Check for Sewer Backups

Heavy rainfall can overwhelm sewer systems, leading to backups that can enter your home’s plumbing. If you notice foul smells coming from your drains or toilets, or if you see signs of water backing up, this could indicate a sewer backup. This is not only inconvenient but a serious health hazard.

If you suspect a sewer backup, avoid using water until the problem is resolved. Contact a plumbing professional right away for an inspection and any necessary repairs.

7. Test Your Water Heater

Flooding can affect your water heater’s performance and safety. If your water heater was exposed to flooding or water damage, do not attempt to turn it on without an inspection. Water heaters have electrical and gas components that can be extremely dangerous if compromised.

Check for any visible damage to the unit, such as rust, standing water, or leaks. If you notice any issues, contact a licensed plumber to assess the situation and make necessary repairs.

8. Schedule a Professional Inspection

Even if everything seems to be working fine, it’s always a good idea to schedule a post-storm inspection of your HVAC and plumbing systems. Professionals can spot potential problems that may not be visible to the untrained eye and ensure everything is running safely and efficiently. This is particularly important in Jacksonville, where storms are frequent and the humidity can exacerbate damage over time.

Conclusion

In the wake of a storm, your home’s HVAC and plumbing systems are at risk of damage, whether from debris, water, or electrical issues. By performing a thorough inspection and taking quick action when necessary, you can avoid costly repairs and ensure that your home stays safe and comfortable. If you need professional help with repairs or HVAC maintenance and plumbing inspections, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Buehler Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Our team of experts is here to help you get back to normal as quickly as possible.

Taking these steps after a storm will give you peace of mind knowing that your home’s vital systems are in good working order, ready to keep your family safe and comfortable through whatever weather comes next.

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