When your air conditioner fails during a heatwave, it can quickly go from uncomfortable to dangerous. High indoor temperatures raise the risk of heat-related illnesses, especially for vulnerable individuals such as children, older adults, and those with chronic health conditions. Your home can heat up fast when the AC is down, turning what seems like a minor hassle into a serious concern.
This guide breaks down the immediate steps to take when your AC gives out, how to stay cool in the meantime, and when it’s time to call in a trusted HVAC technician.
Step 1: Perform Basic Troubleshooting
Not every air conditioning issue is a major one. Many problems start small and can be sorted out with a few simple checks.
Start with the thermostat. Make sure it’s set to “cool” and the temperature is lower than what it is indoors. If the screen is blank or not working, the batteries might just be dead. Swap them out and see if that helps.
Then, take a look at your breaker panel. Since air conditioners use a lot of power, it’s common for breakers to trip now and then. Find the one for your HVAC system and reset it by turning it off and back on. If it keeps tripping, that’s a red flag that an electrician or HVAC technician needs to check it out.
Check your air filter next. If it’s full of dust and debris, airflow can slow down enough to make your system overheat and shut off. Hold the filter up to the light—if you can’t see through it, it’s time for a new one. Ideally, filters should be replaced every month during periods of heavy use.
Move outside and inspect the outdoor condenser unit. If it’s surrounded by leaves, dirt, or other debris, the airflow will suffer. Clear at least two feet around the unit. Always turn off power to the system before you clean anything to be safe.
One more thing to check is the condensate drain line. If this gets clogged, your system might shut down to prevent water damage. Puddles near the indoor unit could mean the line is blocked. A wet/dry vacuum can sometimes clear it out, but if that doesn’t do the trick, it’s time to call someone in.
Step 2: Stay Cool and Safe
If your AC is still down, it’s important to keep the indoor temperature under control. Start by blocking out sunlight with curtains or blinds. Keeping sunlight out can make a big difference in how fast the house heats up.
Get some fans going. Whether they’re portable fans or ceiling fans, moving air can make the heat feel more manageable. Just make sure ceiling fans are spinning counterclockwise so they push air downward.
Stay hydrated. Drink water regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Skip drinks like coffee or alcohol, which can lead to dehydration. Wear lightweight, breathable clothes like cotton, and avoid any heavy lifting or intense activity.
If your house starts feeling too hot to handle, head to a cooler part of your home, like a basement or shaded area. You can also visit public places with air conditioning, like malls, coffee shops, or libraries, while you wait for repairs.
Step 3: Know When to Call a Professional
Sometimes, you can’t fix the problem yourself, and that’s okay. After basic checks, if your unit still isn’t cooling properly, it’s time to call a licensed technician.
Look out for warning signs like warm air blowing from vents, frequent system cycling, or strange noises like rattling or squealing. Also keep an eye out for water pooling around the system, refrigerant leaks, or ice buildup on the coils.
These are usually signs of more serious problems like compressor failure or electrical issues. These aren’t things you can safely fix on your own, and waiting too long can lead to bigger repairs or even needing a full system replacement.
Preventive Measures
You can’t avoid every problem, but routine maintenance can go a long way. Schedule yearly checkups with a licensed HVAC pro. They’ll inspect the system, clean components, check refrigerant levels, and make sure everything runs smoothly.
Stay on top of your air filters, especially during the hottest months. A clean filter keeps airflow steady and helps your system work more efficiently.
Keep the area around your outdoor unit tidy. Trim back shrubs and clear away debris so your AC gets enough ventilation. If you ever hear new sounds, smell something odd, or notice a drop in performance, don’t ignore it. Catching issues early can save you time and money.
Need Immediate Assistance?
If your AC quits on you in the middle of a hot day, don’t sweat it alone. Telford Cooling is here to help with fast, reliable repairs when you need them most. We’ll get your system checked, fixed, and cooling again without wasting time. Don’t wait for the heat to get worse. Schedule an appointment today, and let’s get your comfort back on track.
