AC Prep For Florida’s Hurricane Season
Hurricane season in Florida runs from June 1 through November 30, with the highest risk typically between August and October. For homeowners along the Emerald Coast, including Niceville and nearby communities, that means months of strong winds, heavy rain and the potential for damaging storms.
While not every system becomes a major hurricane, it only takes one storm to threaten your home — and your air conditioning system is often one of the first things to suffer if not properly protected. At McCullough Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electrical, we’ve been helping local homeowners stay safe and comfortable for over 40 years. Today, we’re sharing practical tips to help you get ahead of the weather and protect your comfort.
When you’re asking:
- How do you keep a house cool during a hurricane?
- Should you run your AC during a storm?
- Should you remove window air conditioners during a hurricane?
We’ve got the answers you need.
Before The Storm: Prep Your AC System The Right Way
1. Pre-Cool Your Home
In the hours before a storm makes landfall, lower your thermostat several degrees below your usual setting. This helps your home stay cooler longer if the power goes out, keeping you and your family comfortable.
2. Turn Off Your AC
Once your home is cooled down, shut off your AC completely — both at the thermostat and the circuit breaker. This prevents damage from power surges or erratic voltage that often occurs during and after storms.
3. Secure The Outdoor Unit
If your AC condenser is exposed to open air, it’s vulnerable to high winds and flying debris. While AC systems are designed to withstand the elements, extreme weather like hurricanes can cause serious damage.
- Cover the unit with a tarp or sturdy piece of plywood once it’s shut down.
- Anchor the system using hurricane straps, especially in flood-prone areas of Niceville like downtown, shoreline neighborhoods or low-lying communities.
This extra step helps prevent structural damage and protects the unit from water and impact damage.
4. Remove Window Units
Have you ever wondered: Should you remove window air conditioners during a hurricane? The answer is yes, absolutely.
If you’re using portable or window-mounted AC units, take them out before the storm arrives. Not only can they become projectiles in strong winds, but they can also allow water and air to enter your home through small gaps.
After The Hurricane: Inspect Before You Restart
1. Check For Debris And Damage
Once the storm passes and it’s safe to go outside, inspect your AC unit. Look for:
- Tree limbs or other debris lodged in or around the system
- Standing water or flooding near the base
- Bent fins or visible damage to coils and lines
2. Assess For Water Damage
If your home or outdoor AC unit experienced flooding, moisture could have entered the electrical components. Never turn the system back on until you’re confident it’s safe — or until it’s been inspected by a licensed technician.
3. Schedule A Professional Inspection
If you’re unsure about the condition of your AC or notice anything out of the ordinary, don’t risk further damage. Contact the pros at McCullough AC for a quick, thorough inspection. We offer same-day service to homeowners throughout Niceville.
Why Trust McCullough AC With Hurricane AC Prep?
When it comes to protecting your home and your comfort, McCullough AC is Niceville’s go-to team. For over 40 years, we’ve built our reputation on fast, reliable and honest HVAC services. Our licensed technicians are trained to handle hurricane-related AC concerns quickly and affordably — so you can get back to comfort with confidence.
With McCullough AC, You Can Expect:
- Licensed, professional service
- Transparent, upfront pricing
- Same-day and emergency availability
- Affordable financing and membership perks
- Friendly, community-focused care from a trusted local team
Need Post-Storm AC Help In The Niceville Area?
If your HVAC system has taken a hit during hurricane season, don’t wait to get help. Whether you need a quick inspection, repairs or help replacing storm-damaged equipment,McCullough AC is ready to get to work.
Contact us today to schedule service or speak with one of our friendly experts. We’re here to keep your home cool, safe and comfortable — rain or shine.
