What to Do When Your AC Stops Working During a Heat Wave
When your AC isn’t working during a heat wave, it’s not only stressful but can create an unsafe environment. There are two basic things that you can safely check on your own before calling for emergency AC repair service. While waiting for repairs, you should also limit indoor heat and relocate if the temperature becomes unsafe. It’s important to know when to troubleshoot on your own and when to call in a professional for air conditioner repair.
Start With a Few Safe AC Checks
If your AC stops working, you can start by checking your thermostat. Ensure that the settings are correct and that your desired temperature is below the room temperature. If your thermostat screen is blank, you may need to reset your circuit breaker or put in fresh batteries.
You can also inspect your air filter to see if it’s dirty and in need of replacement. Additionally, check that all of your supply and return vents are free from any obstructions. If these solutions don’t solve your air conditioner problem, call for professional AC repair during the heat wave.
Check Whether the AC Is Running but Not Cooling
An air conditioner that simply won’t turn on is much different than one that runs without producing enough cold air. If your air conditioner isn’t turning on, you can check your circuit breaker and reset it if it’s tripped. If your unit is on but not producing cold air, it can have frozen components, refrigerant problems, airflow issues, and other system issues. These can all prevent your air conditioner from properly cooling your home and require a professional diagnosis.
Know When to Call for Emergency AC Repair
If you’ve tried the troubleshooting steps of checking your thermostat, air filter, and vents, then it’s time to call in a pro. You never want to continue to attempt troubleshooting your system if it has a more complex problem. Rather, it’s best to schedule professional service to get prompt repairs.
Issues like your unit producing an unusual odor, making strange noises, freezing up, repeatedly shutting down, or failing to turn on all require professional help. We conveniently offer same-day and 24/7 emergency repair services throughout Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky.
Keep Your Home Cooler While Waiting for Service
While you’re waiting for our technician to arrive, there are some things that you can do to keep your home cool. Start by closing your blinds or curtains to minimize the heat gain from the sun. Limit using your oven and other heat-producing appliances. You can run ceiling fans and opt for staying on the lower levels of your home. Additionally, make sure that you’re keeping your exterior doors and windows closed.
Pay Extra Attention to Heat Safety
Extreme indoor temperatures can be particularly dangerous for young children, pets, older adults, and people with sensitivity to heat. If your home gets too hot, it’s best to relocate to a cooler environment until we can restore adequate cooling to your home. You never want to stay in a home that’s uncomfortably hot, as it can be dangerous to your health.
What Can Cause an AC to Suddenly Stop Working?
There are several reasons that your air conditioner may suddenly stop working during a heat wave. These include electrical malfunctions, component issues, dirty filters, thermostat issues, and frozen coils. You may have airflow restrictions or even refrigerant-related issues. Anytime that your AC suddenly stops working during the heat wave, it’s time to call for professional help.
Can Regular AC Maintenance Help Prevent Breakdowns?
One of the best ways to minimize your risk of experiencing a summertime breakdown is to get preventative maintenance for your system. This is perfect for identifying worn components, electrical issues, airflow problems, dirty coils, and other issues with your unit. Our technicians can repair the problems before they place additional strain on your system, leading to a breakdown. Our maintenance service includes many tasks, like checking filters, electrical connections, coils, blower motors, condensate drains, and refrigerant levels.
Get Your Cooling System Back Up and Running
We always encourage homeowners to prioritize their safety during heat rather than messing around with troubleshooting their unit. Contact us at Schneller Knochelmann now for AC repair in Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky.