Reports
Retrofit Improvements: Elevate & Secure Outdoor HVAC Equipment

Retrofit Improvements: Elevate & Secure Outdoor HVAC Equipment

HVAC equipment installed outside the house should be elevated to 1’ above the base flood elevation (BFE), just as the living areas of newly-constructed homes are required to be. Equipment normally placed on a pad at grade level (e.g., HVAC compressor) should be secured and raised to a level safely above flood waters.

Cost estimates to have a wooden elevated platform (6’) professionally built run about $500. Relocating the compressor itself, as well as, the emergency disconnect box, extending the refrigerant line, recapturing the old refrigerant and recharging costs about $1,300. Because of the costs, elevating the outside HVAC unit during equipment upgrades should be considered.