How to Protect Your AC for Hurricane Season

Before the storm

• Clear the area around the condenser of anything that could become a projectile — patio furniture, planters, loose debris.
• Consider surge protection — a whole-home or HVAC-specific surge protector helps guard the system against the spikes common when power is restored.
• Don't cover the running unit — only cover it once it's turned off, and remove any cover before running it again so it can breathe.
• Secure, don't strap to the AC — never tie down items to the unit or its lines.
• Know your shutoff — locate the outdoor disconnect and the indoor and outdoor breakers.

As the storm arrives — turn it off

When a hurricane or strong storm is closing in, switch the system OFF at the thermostat and then at the breaker. The biggest threats aren't the wind alone — they're power surges from grid disruptions and lightning, and brownouts that can damage the compressor. A system that's powered down can't be harmed by a surge, and you avoid the compressor trying to start on unstable power. This single step prevents some of the most expensive post-storm repairs.

After the storm — inspect before you restart

• Check for flooding — if floodwater reached the outdoor unit or the indoor air handler, do NOT turn it on; have it inspected first.
• Look for physical damage — debris impact, bent fins, a shifted unit, or exposed wiring.
• Clear debris from around and inside the condenser grille.
• Restore power deliberately — turn the breaker back on, then the thermostat, and listen for normal startup; if it trips, hums, or smells off, shut it down and call a pro.

Why this matters in Polk County

Central Florida sits squarely in hurricane country, and even storms that pass to the side bring surges, outages, and flooding rain. A little preparation protects a major investment — and after a widespread storm, HVAC companies are slammed, so a system you protected up front keeps you out of a long repair line. If yours did take a hit, same-day inspection helps you get cooling back safely.

Why you can trust this guide

The post-storm calls that hurt most are the surge-fried compressors — almost all preventable by flipping the breaker off before the storm. We'd rather coach a Winter Haven homeowner through that free step than replace a compressor after.

Reviewed by Billy Gregus, Owner of Integrity Refrigeration & AC. Last updated June 2026. We'd rather you understand the *why* than just take our word for it — and if you'd like a real person to look at your specific system, a locally owned Winter Haven team is a phone call away.