Hurricane season in Fort Lauderdale goes beyond securing your home; it means protecting every valuable asset, especially appliances. Though homeowners prioritize structural safety, they frequently disregard the hidden threat: hurricanes can subtly damage refrigerators, washing machines, dryers, HVAC units, water heaters, dishwashers, and small kitchen gadgets. The damage might not be instant; hidden electrical surges or water damage can create issues later.
For those with investments in premium appliances, open-box finds, or discounted home appliances from reliable stores like Mardeys Appliances, hurricane preparedness isn’t a choice—it’s essential. If you purchased from the leading online appliance store or grabbed kitchen appliance deals during a sale, these items represent more than comfort, but notable financial worth. Losing them to storm damage means needless repair bills, replacements, and the trouble of a disrupted routine.
In this complete guide, we’ll cover how Fort Lauderdale residents can protect their appliances before, during, and after a hurricane using proven methods combining homeowner best practices with appliance industry knowledge.
Understanding the Real Risks Hurricanes Pose to Appliances
Fort Lauderdale hurricanes present a range of hazards that can rapidly ruin working appliances.Â
These hazards are:
- Strong Winds: Exterior equipment such as AC condensers and pool pumps are easily damaged. Windblown objects can damage or sever parts.
- Flooding and Surge: Even minor water levels can wreck motors, compressors, and circuit boards in devices such as washers, dryers, fridges, and dishwashers.
- Prolonged Blackouts: Food spoils rapidly in fridges and freezers without power. Electronics might also malfunction without constant electricity.
- Voltage Spikes: Upon power restoration, voltage surges can damage delicate circuits in microwaves, ovens, and smart appliances.
Knowing these risks lets you take specific actions to protect your brand-new, open-box, or sale-priced appliances and prevent costly repairs later on.
Refrigerator and Freezer Protection
If you’ve purchased a quality fridge, be it a high-end one or a bargain from Mardeys Appliances, it warrants some special care. A refrigerator is among the most susceptible appliances during a power failure, but with some forethought, you can keep your food safe for a greater duration.
Initially, decrease the temperature to the coldest setting at least a day before the storm arrives. This creates a cold store, assisting your food to stay fresh when the power is interrupted.
Then, freeze water-filled containers – these act as ice packs in your fridge, and can later be used as drinking water. If you own a larger-capacity model from an online home appliance shop, you’ll have more space to freeze extra water and expand the cooling period.
When the storm hits, avoid opening the doors. Every time you open the fridge or freezer, cold air is released, speeding up the rate of spoilage.
Finally, make a decision about unplugging or using a surge protector. If your area is at risk of flooding, unplug to avoid electrical shock and potential motor damage. If flooding isn’t a risk, keep the appliance connected through a heavy-duty surge protector designed for significant appliances.
Washing Machine and Dryer Preparation
Replacing washing machines and dryers can be costly, especially when considering high-efficiency models from appliance sales or the best online retailers.
If your laundry room could flood, detach hoses, remove the plugs, and raise the appliances using concrete blocks or an appliance stand. Even a small lift can save money by preventing motor and control panel problems.
For front-load washers, secure the drum to protect against internal damage from movement during heavy vibrations or storms.
Use weatherproof covers on dryer vents to keep out wind-blown rain. This is particularly relevant for people living in older Fort Lauderdale homes that have vent outlets near the ground.
HVAC Systems and Air Conditioners
Your HVAC system is both a valuable and susceptible feature of your home.
Before a storm arrives, switch off the system at the circuit breaker to prevent an electrical surge. Outdoor units should be secured using hurricane straps or wall mounts to endure strong winds.
Shield the outdoor unit using a cover that is breathable and waterproof. Don’t ever utilize a fully airtight covering, as trapped moisture can rust the parts.
After the hurricane has moved through, refrain from restarting the system right away. Have a qualified technician examine it to confirm there is no unseen damage. This is particularly important if your system is a high-end model, whether purchased from a discounted appliance store or installed during a home improvement undertaking.
Small Kitchen Appliances
It’s easy to overlook small kitchen gadgets such as blenders, coffee machines, microwaves, and toasters. These, particularly when bought during online sales, can be stowed securely in overhead cupboards or in waterproof boxes.
Always disconnect them from power before a storm to protect against electrical surges or water issues.
Water Heaters and Dishwashers
For electric water heaters, turn them off at the circuit breaker. For gas models, close the gas supply valve.
If flooding is coming, drain the water heater to avoid harm.
Like washing machines, lifting the appliances can safeguard them from floodwater. This is especially crucial if you own a large or energy-saving model from an appliance shop online.
Electronics and Home Entertainment Systems
Back up and unplug your TVs, computers, and game systems, as these are typically your priciest electronics. Place them in a secure, dry spot, preferably inside waterproof cases or airtight plastic containers.
Also, consider having a battery-operated TV or radio ready so you can get updates during power failures.
Standby Generators and Emergency Power
In places susceptible to hurricanes, such as Fort Lauderdale, a backup generator can power vital devices.
Assess fuel levels – store propane or gasoline with care. Prior to hurricane season, test the generator. Also, use a professional to install it to prevent the danger of carbon monoxide.
If you purchased the generator from the top online appliances retailer, make sure it’s sized appropriately for your home’s electricity requirements.
Insurance and Warranty Checks
Before hurricane season, review your homeowner’s insurance to see if appliance damage is covered. Some policies require special flood or surge protection riders.
Also, check manufacturer warranties—especially for open box appliances—to know your repair and replacement rights.
Post-Hurricane Inspection and Safety
Once authorities declare it safe to return home:
- Check for water intrusion around every appliance.
- Never use wet appliances—have them inspected first.
- Document all damage with photos for insurance claims.
If any appliance bought from Mardeys Appliances is damaged, contact our appliance repairs team for professional assessment and service.
Fort Lauderdale Hurricane Appliance Preparedness Checklist
Turn your fridge and freezer to the coldest setting a day before the storm hits.
Freeze water in containers for cooling and drinking purposes.
Unplug and stow away small electrical devices.
Raise washing machines, dryers, and water heaters if they’re in a flood zone.
Turn off the gas and electricity supplies to your big appliances.
Use straps and breathable covers to protect your HVAC systems.
Ensure generators have fuel and have been tested.
Use surge protectors for important electronics.
Protecting Appliances is Protecting Your Home
In Fort Lauderdale, getting ready for a hurricane involves more than just protecting your home’s structure—it means protecting your investments in reduced-price appliances, returned items, and brand new ones. A small amount of effort now can avoid hefty repair or replacement costs later on.
For help protecting or fixing your appliances before or after hurricane season, visit our website Mardeys Appliances and complete the Connect form. The Mardeys Appliances team is prepared to help with everything, from appliance sales to urgent repairs, so your home stays operational, secure, and ready for any weather.
ReÂach out to us,Â
Phone: (954) 758-8722
Email: [email protected],Â
Visit our website: Mardeys Appliances
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