Laser Focus World is an industry bedrock—first published in 1965 and still going strong. We publish original articles about cutting-edge advances in lasers, optics, photonics, sensors, and quantum technologies, as well as test and measurement, and the shift currently underway to usher in the photonic integrated circuits, optical interconnects, and copackaged electronics and photonics to deliver the speed and efficiency essential for data centers of the future.

Our 80,000 qualified print subscribers—and 130,000 12-month engaged online audience—trust us to dive in and provide original journalism you won’t find elsewhere covering key emerging areas such as laser-driven inertial confinement fusion, lasers in space, integrated photonics, chipscale lasers, LiDAR, metasurfaces, high-energy laser weaponry, photonic crystals, and quantum computing/sensors/communications. We cover the innovations driving these markets.

Laser Focus World is part of Endeavor Business Media, a division of EndeavorB2B.

Laser Focus World Membership

Never miss any articles, videos, podcasts, or webinars by signing up for membership access to Laser Focus World online. You can manage your preferences all in one place—and provide our editorial team with your valued feedback.

Magazine Subscription

Can you subscribe to receive our print issue for free? Yes, you sure can!

Newsletter Subscription

Laser Focus World newsletter subscription is free to qualified professionals:

The Daily Beam

Showcases the newest content from Laser Focus World, including photonics- and optics-based applications, components, research, and trends. (Daily)

Product Watch

The latest in products within the photonics industry. (9x per year)

Bio & Life Sciences Product Watch

The latest in products within the biophotonics industry. (4x per year)

Laser Processing Product Watch

The latest in products within the laser processing industry. (3x per year)

Get Published!

If you’d like to write an article for us, reach out with a short pitch to Sally Cole Johnson: [email protected]. We love to hear from you.

Photonics Hot List

Laser Focus World produces a video newscast that gives a peek into what’s happening in the world of photonics.

Following the Photons: A Photonics Podcast

Following the Photons: A Photonics Podcast dives deep into the fascinating world of photonics. Our weekly episodes feature interviews and discussions with industry and research experts, providing valuable perspectives on the issues, technologies, and trends shaping the photonics community.

Editorial Advisory Board

  • Professor Andrea M. Armani, University of Southern California
  • Ruti Ben-Shlomi, Ph.D., LightSolver
  • James Butler, Ph.D., Hamamatsu
  • Natalie Fardian-Melamed, Ph.D., Columbia University
  • Justin Sigley, Ph.D., AmeriCOM
  • Professor Birgit Stiller, Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light, and Leibniz University of Hannover
  • Professor Stephen Sweeney, University of Glasgow
  • Mohan Wang, Ph.D., University of Oxford
  • Professor Xuchen Wang, Harbin Engineering University
  • Professor Stefan Witte, Delft University of Technology

4 ways to protect your HVAC system from natural disasters

(BPT) - When severe weather strikes, one's home is often the first line of defense. While many homeowners are focused on protecting the roof, windows or basement, it's easy to forget about one of the home's most important systems: heating and cooling. An HVAC system keeps a family comfortable year-round, but it's also vulnerable to damage during storms, floods, wildfires and other natural disasters.

Taking a few precautions can help avoid costly repairs and ensure the system is safe to use after the storm passes. The following are four steps homeowners can take to protect their HVAC systems.

Power down before the storm

When a natural disaster approaches, turn off power to the HVAC system at the circuit breaker. This reduces the risk of electrical damage from power surges and helps protect the equipment in the event of flooding.

A great way to go one step further is to install surge suppression for both your indoor and outdoor units. These devices work by squelching surges and spikes that might damage the electronics within your system. They help prevent problems during lightning storms or when the electrical grid is under stress from severe weather. Some models can also provide protection during electrical brownouts. The best part? They're relatively inexpensive and easy to install, but they offer excellent protection for your HVAC investment.

Secure outdoor units from high winds

Strong winds can cause serious damage, either by shifting the unit off its base or by hurling debris into the equipment. Before the storm, bolt outdoor units securely in place. Remove lawn furniture, planters or tools that could become airborne hazards. In hurricane-prone areas, homeowners often use hurricane straps to provide their equipment with added stability.

Guard against flooding

Rising water poses major risks to indoor and outdoor HVAC equipment. If a home is in a flood-prone area, consider elevating your outdoor unit on a concrete or composite platform. After flooding, never attempt to restart the HVAC system without first having it inspected. Moisture exposure can cause hidden damage, electrical hazards or mold growth if not addressed by a professional.

Keep up with regular maintenance

Routine HVAC maintenance is always a smart move, but it's especially important in areas prone to extreme weather conditions. Having a system inspected both before and after severe storms can help catch any damage early. A qualified technician, such as a Rheem Pro Partner®, ensures the equipment is safe, efficient and ready for the season ahead.

Regardless of one's location, preparation is essential. Natural disasters can happen with little warning, and these steps can help protect a home's comfort systems and save users from unexpected expenses. For additional resources and expert help, companies such as Rheem, a well-known 100-year-old HVAC manufacturer, and its network of contractors, offer guidance to homeowners navigating these challenges.

Stock Quote API & Stock News API supplied by www.cloudquote.io
Quotes delayed at least 20 minutes.
By accessing this page, you agree to the following
Privacy Policy and Terms Of Service.