Why Your AC Needs a Summer Storm Game Plan
Perth’s summers aren’t just blue skies and BBQs—wild storms, gusty winds, and the odd ex-tropical cyclone can belt the coast. In suburbs like Cottesloe, Scarborough, and Trigg, salty air and sea breezes turn nasty fast: 100 km/h winds, sideways rain, and airborne debris can batter your outdoor unit. A mid-January heatwave with a damaged AC is the last thing you want.
- Why cyclone prep matters for Perth coastal homes
- How to secure and protect your AC before the season
- Buyer’s guide for cyclone-ready hardware and cleaning kits
- Maintenance steps to keep your AC storm-safe
- When to upgrade to cyclone-rated systems
- Real Perth story proving preparation pays
Why It Matters – Local Relevance to Perth Coastal Homes
WA’s cyclone season runs November to April (peaking January to March). Perth isn’t Broome or Karratha, but ex-tropical systems still track south and bring:
- Winds strong enough to shift or damage outdoor units/ducting
- Heavy downpours that pool around AC bases
- Flying debris from neighbouring properties
Why coastal homes are more at risk
- Salt corrosion: Sea spray weakens mounts, screws, and casings.
- High wind exposure: Fewer buildings to block ocean gusts.
- Sand ingress: Fine sand clogs vents and stresses fans/coils.
Without prep, you could face a repair bill in the hundreds—or thousands.
How It Works – Protecting Your AC from Cyclones
Think in three parts: Anchoring, Shielding, and Clearing.
Anchoring — Keep It Firmly in Place
- Install cyclone-rated mounting brackets.
- Use galvanised or marine-grade stainless anchor bolts.
- Add cross-bracing for lateral strength.
Shielding — Keep Debris at Bay
Use cyclone covers or mesh guards to deflect branches/roof tiles without choking airflow.
Clearing — Remove Hazards Before the Storm
Trim trees, secure outdoor furniture, and clear leaves/fronds so nothing turns into a projectile. Even a small object can dent a coil in high winds.
Aussie Tips & Buyer’s Guide – Local Insights
Go for cyclone-rated hardware
Choose brackets/kits designed and tested to AS/NZS cyclone compliance wind loads.
Invest in corrosion-resistant materials
For coastal sites, pick galvanised steel or marine-grade stainless—they outlast zinc-plated parts.
Don’t forget pre-season cleaning
Clean first so covers don’t trap grime and salt. See our Air Conditioner Cleaning Kits to remove salt, dust, and buildup for maximum airflow.
Keep a preventative maintenance kit on hand
Stock up from Cleaning & Preventative Maintenance so you can service before and after storms.
Best Products to Try Before Cyclone Season
- Cyclone-rated mounting brackets — built for extreme wind resistance.
- Marine-grade anchor bolts — corrosion-proof for salty air.
- Protective mesh covers — block debris without choking airflow.
- Professional AC cleaning kits — see Air Conditioner Cleaning Kits.
These aren’t “nice-to-haves”—they can be the difference between a cool home and a costly repair.
Maintenance Must-Knows (Pre-Cyclone Checklist)
- Inspect mounts, bolts, and brackets for rust or looseness.
- Flush condensate drains to prevent pooling.
- Clean coils and filters for maximum airflow.
- Trim trees and remove loose debris nearby.
- Check electrical connections for wear/UV damage.
After a storm: Re-check everything before switching on to avoid electrical faults or mechanical strain.
When to Upgrade
If your unit is 10+ years old and the mounts are rusting, upgrading before the season can save headaches.
Signs it’s time
- Excessive vibration during operation
- Brackets/mounts showing deep rust
- Frequent breakdowns in high humidity or post-storm
Modern units offer better corrosion protection and pair well with cyclone-rated kits from day one.
Client Story — John from Cottesloe
Last January a downgraded cyclone pushed 90 km/h winds over Perth. John cleaned his coils with a kit from HVAC Shop’s Cleaning Range, installed cyclone-rated brackets, and cleared the yard. His AC was untouched next morning. His neighbour? A dented fan guard and a repair bill.
Key Takeaways
- WA cyclone season: November–April (peak Jan–Mar)—prep early.
- Secure, shield, and clear—then clean—before storms hit.
- Coastal homes need corrosion-resistant, cyclone-rated hardware.
- Use internal links to shop: Cleaning & Preventative Maintenance and AC Cleaning Kits.
Don’t wait for the first storm warning. Give your AC the best chance of surviving cyclone season and keeping your home comfortable.
Shop our full range of Cleaning & Preventative Maintenance products and get storm-ready.
FAQs
Can I secure my AC unit myself?
Yes, with basic tools and the manufacturer’s instructions. For complex installs, hire a licensed installer.
Do cyclone-rated covers reduce airflow?
Properly designed mesh covers allow ventilation while blocking debris.
Is it worth replacing an old AC before cyclone season?
If it’s rusty, unstable, or inefficient—yes. You’ll likely save on repairs and running costs.
Will insurance cover cyclone damage to AC units?
Check your policy. Some insurers require proof of preventative maintenance.
Written by: Rica Francia Macaspac, content writer at HVACSHOP. Rica helps Aussie tradies and homeowners understand HVAC gear without the jargon, working with industry experts to ensure accuracy and local relevance.
Date Updated: Nov 10, 2025