Whole home · Field note
Spring Storm Prep for HVAC, Plumbing & Electrical Systems
A short equipment walk-through can reduce surprises when wind, rain, and power interruptions arrive together.
Household systems rarely fail in a way that matches a neat internet checklist. Use the checks below to gather useful information, then stop if the condition becomes unsafe or the same symptom keeps returning.
Clear water paths
Make sure downspouts and sump discharge lines carry water away from the foundation. Test the sump pump and confirm that the backup power source is charged and within service life.
Protect outdoor equipment
Remove loose objects near the condenser, but do not wrap an operating unit. After a storm, inspect for visible damage and shut the system down if you hear grinding or see displaced wiring.
Plan for an outage
Know which loads a portable or standby generator can support. Never connect a portable generator to the home without approved transfer equipment, and always operate it outdoors away from openings.
Leave the area and contact the appropriate emergency service for gas odors, suspected carbon monoxide, fire, arcing, smoke, or water near energized equipment.
