Few things are more frustrating than finding yourself sweltering on the couch after a long day, only to discover that your air conditioning system has suddenly stopped working. While it’s natural to feel a rush of panic and frustration in this situation, it’s best to attack it with a calm mindset. Take a deep breath and follow this list to tackle your emergency air conditioner repairs like an expert.
Check the Basics
Before you rush to call a professional, save time (and money!) by making sure the problem isn’t stemming from something you address yourself. If any obstructions are blocking the AC, the system may stop entirely. Additionally, even small components like air filters can cause havoc in your system if not changed regularly. Clean ducts and vents also play a significant role in your system’s performance. Ensure that you’ve taken care of these basic maintenance tasks to rule out any minor issues as the root cause of your problem.
Safety First
Now that you’re aware of the severity of the issue, call a professional! AC systems are highly complex and come with lots of risks. Attempting to address a significant problem yourself could lead to further damage to the system or even pose a risk of injury to yourself. In the meantime, as a safety precaution for your home and family, be sure to turn off the system’s power entirely or shut off the gas supply if your system runs on natural gas.
Begin Detailed Documentation
Before your AC technician arrives, it’s crucial that you start documenting any potential issues. This will help the technician understand what the problem is and how to provide the best assistance. Make note of any strange noises or smells coming from the system, as well as any visibly obvious abnormalities. Additionally, you should also be keeping track of any odd behavior. For instance, is your A/C producing hot air? Does it reset every 5 minutes? Even if something seems minor, documenting any anomalies can prove extremely helpful to your technician
Stay Comfortable
In Texas, there’s nothing worse than being somewhere with a broken A/C – especially your own home. It’s essential to avoid messing around with your A/C unit while it’s broken, even when it’s extremely hot and you just want to test out if the system will go down a few degrees. Instead, find other ways to stay comfortable. Consider investing in portable fans or a backup cooling unit that you can easily bring out during such times. If you prefer a zero-cost option, open windows and doors to enhance ventilation and promote cooler airflow in your living space.
Be Prepared for the Next Emergency
No A/C system is perfect. Your system will likely require repairs at least once during its 12-year lifespan. To avoid immediate stress and frustration when emergencies arise, it’s wise to always be prepared. Stay proactive by keeping up with preventative maintenance to reduce the likelihood of a malfunction. Additionally, stay informed about your system’s overall condition, including its age, so you can plan for a replacement before it wears out. As a general guideline, consider including an HVAC emergency fund in your budget to ensure that a repair never puts a strain on your finances
Emergency air conditioner repairs happen to everybody. While it’s normal to feel frustrated and stressed, these situations are best handled with poise and patience. This will make things better for your A/C system, your family, and your technician.
Are you dealing with a current A/C malfunction or preparing for a future emergency? Lucky for you, we’re always in the neighborhood! Contact Manuel & Sons for 24/7 emergency repairs or to schedule preventative maintenance.
