Florida leads the country in lightning strikes, and our afternoon storms send surges through the grid all summer. HVAC systems — full of sensitive electronics and motors — are a prime casualty.
How surges damage HVAC
A voltage spike can fry control boards, capacitors, and the compressor electronics in an instant. Modern high-efficiency and inverter systems have more electronics than older units, which makes surge protection more important, not less.
Layered protection
The best approach is layered: a whole-home surge protector at the panel plus a dedicated HVAC surge protector at the unit. Together they absorb spikes before they reach the equipment you depend on.
Worth it?
Compared to a control board or compressor replacement, surge protection is inexpensive. In our storm climate it is one of the highest-value upgrades a homeowner can make.
Talk to a local expert
Have a question about your specific system? Bertie Heating & Air has served Gainesville and North Central Florida since 1991. Call (352) 331-2005 for honest advice, a fast repair, or a free in-home estimate.