Summer in Ohio brings more than sunshine and heat; it also means the risk of powerful storms. Dayton, Columbus, and Cincinnati weather can be unpredictable, with sudden downpours and damaging winds. Flooding can also cause major electrical issues and be fatal to a heating system and other basement equipment. These conditions can seriously strain your HVAC and plumbing systems if they are not adequately prepared.
In preparation for upcoming severe weather, Logan Services A/C, Heat & Plumbing has created a guide to help you get your HVAC system ready for summer storms, protecting your home and investment.
Be Proactive: Inspect Your HVAC System Before Storm Season
Ohio weather can shift quickly, from sunshine to severe storms in a matter of minutes. That’s why it’s important to prepare your HVAC system early to help prevent storm-related damage and ensure uninterrupted comfort.
Start by taking these simple steps to protect your outdoor unit:
- Trim Surrounding Vegetation: Overgrown bushes and low-hanging branches can become dangerous projectiles in strong winds. Keep at least two feet of clearance around your HVAC unit to minimize risk.
- Clear Debris Around the Unit: Remove leaves, sticks, mulch, and any yard waste that could clog or damage your system if blown around during a storm.
- Check the Unit’s Stability: Make sure your outdoor HVAC unit is level and securely mounted to its base. If your system wobbles or appears unstable, it could be more vulnerable to damage during strong winds or heavy rainfall.
- Consider Installing a Backup Generator: A whole-home or portable generator can keep your air conditioner running during extended power outages. This helps maintain livable indoor temperatures and protects vulnerable family members until power is restored.
To ensure your system is fully storm-ready, schedule a professional HVAC maintenance visit with Logan Services. Our team proudly serves Dayton, Columbus, and Cincinnati with expert seasonal checkups that keep your system running efficiently and safely, even when Ohio’s summer weather is anything but predictable.
Don’t Forget About Plumbing: Check Your Sump Pump Before the Storm
While your HVAC system is crucial for comfort during summer storms, your sump pump plays an equally important role in protecting your home, especially your basement, from water damage. Ohio’s summer thunderstorms often bring intense downpours. Without a working sump pump, homes in flood-prone areas near the Great Miami River in Dayton or the Scioto River in Columbus are especially at risk.
Here’s how to make sure your sump pump is storm-ready:
- Test It Before Every Major Storm: Pour a bucket of water into the sump pit to ensure the pump activates and drains properly.
- Check the Power Source and Add a Backup Battery: Make sure the pump is plugged into a GFCI outlet. Because power outages are common during severe storms, a battery backup system can help your sump pump keep working when you need it most.
- Consider Installing a Secondary or Backup Pump: For added peace of mind, many Ohio homeowners install a redundant backup pump—either battery-powered or water-powered—that automatically kicks in if the primary unit fails or becomes overwhelmed during heavy rainfall.
- Inspect for Debris or Blockages: Just like your HVAC equipment, sump pumps can be affected by dirt and debris. Clear the area regularly to ensure proper operation.
Post-Storm Service & Maintenance
Once it’s safe to go outside, take a few minutes to assess your HVAC system.
- Check For Physical Damage: Look for dents, dislodged parts, or anything unusual. If you spot something concerning, don’t attempt repairs on your own.
- Test The Operation: After inspecting, restore power to your HVAC system and observe its startup. Any strange sounds or poor performance may indicate internal damage.
- Schedule Professional Attention: Even if everything seems normal, it’s smart to schedule post-storm maintenance with the trusted HVAC experts at Logan Services. We’ll ensure your system is running safely and efficiently. We also provide same-day service appointments when available.
- Inspect Your Sump Pump As Well: If your home relies on a sump pump to prevent flooding, it’s critical to check its function after a storm. Confirm that it has power, the float switch is clear of debris, and the pit is draining properly. Also, test your battery backup system or secondary pump to make sure it’s ready for future storms. A failed sump pump can lead to water damage that puts your HVAC system—and your home—at risk.
If you’ve experienced storm damage to your HVAC or plumbing system, call Logan Services at (800) 564-2611 to schedule your post-storm inspection or repair. Our team is here to help you recover quickly and safely.
The Importance of Routine Maintenance
Routine maintenance is one of the best ways to protect your home from storm damage. Regular checkups keep your systems running efficiently and help prevent unexpected issues during Ohio’s unpredictable summer weather.
For Your HVAC System:
- Replace Air Filters Regularly: Dirty filters restrict airflow and strain your system; check them monthly during peak season.
- Keep Drain Lines Clear: Make sure your AC’s condensate line is draining properly to avoid water backups.
- Join Our HVAC Maintenance Plan: Includes seasonal tune-ups, priority scheduling, discounts, and expert care to keep your system storm-ready.
For Your Plumbing System:
- Test Your Sump Pump: Ensure it activates properly and consider a battery backup or secondary pump for added protection.
- Prevent Water Damage: Leaky pipes or poor drainage can lead to basement flooding and HVAC damage.
- Join Our Plumbing Maintenance Plan: Includes sump pump inspections, water heater checks, and more to keep your plumbing in top shape.
When Storm Damage Means It’s Time for a Replacement
While many HVAC issues after a summer storm can be resolved with a simple repair, sometimes the damage is too extensive, especially if the system has been exposed to flooding, electrical surges, or flying debris. In these cases, a full system replacement may be the safest and most cost-effective solution.
Logan Services offers expert AC replacement and installation across Dayton, Columbus, and Cincinnati. If your system is:
- Over 10–15 years old
- Constantly breaking down
- Running inefficiently or making unusual noises
- Visibly damaged after a storm
…it might be time to upgrade to a new, energy-efficient model. Our team can assess the damage and help you find the best solution for your home, comfort needs, and budget.
Plus, we offer financing options, free in-home estimates, and next-day installations so you never have to worry in the wake of a storm.
Why Choose Logan Services for Storm-Season Protection?
With decades of experience serving homeowners across Dayton, Columbus, and Cincinnati, Logan Services understands the unique weather challenges Ohioans face. When you partner with us, you get:
- Certified HVAC Experts trained in storm preparedness and repair
- Fast, Friendly Scheduling for tune-ups and emergency service
- Affordable Maintenance Plans to help you stay ahead of costly issues
- Top-Rated Customer Service from a local team that cares about your comfort
Whether you need preventative maintenance, storm damage repair, or a complete system upgrade, Logan Services is here to help before, during, and after the storm.
Frequently Asked Questions: HVAC & Plumbing Storm Preparation
Yes! Logan Services offers emergency HVAC and plumbing repair across Dayton, Columbus, and Cincinnati. If your system is damaged by wind, water, or a power surge, our team is ready to respond quickly and restore your comfort.
Yes, strong winds, debris, flooding, or electrical surges can cause serious damage. Even if your system appears to be fine, internal components may still be affected. Logan Services offers prompt post-storm maintenance and same-day service appointments (when available) to diagnose and repair damage safely and efficiently.
Inspect the sump pump to ensure it has power, is free of debris, and is draining water properly. Also test the float switch and battery backup system (or secondary pump). A failed sump pump can lead to basement flooding and damage to your HVAC equipment. Logan Services provides plumbing inspections and sump pump maintenance as part of our full-service storm preparation.
Both systems should be inspected at least twice a year, especially before cooling and storm seasons. Routine maintenance helps prevent breakdowns and improves efficiency. Logan Services offers HVAC and plumbing maintenance plans that include seasonal checkups, priority scheduling, and expert care year-round.
Stay Storm-Ready With Logan Services
Don’t wait for the next storm to test your home’s readiness. Whether you need an HVAC tune-up, plumbing inspection, sump pump installation, or post-storm repairs, Logan Services is here to help. Our experienced team proudly serves Dayton, Columbus, and Cincinnati, providing fast, reliable HVAC and plumbing services you can count on before, during, and after the storm.
Call us today at (800) 564-2611 to schedule your service appointment and protect your home with confidence.
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