Imagine that the temperature outside is so hot that you can make an omelet on a sidewalk. You are enjoying free time after or before work, watching TV, or playing video games, while the AC unit makes the area comfortable and enjoyable.
As you do everything we stated above, you suddenly start to sweat, which brings you to realize that something is not okay. The comfort you felt before is not as it should be, and you cannot relax anymore.
You can click here to learn more about general maintenance you can do by yourself.
Most people would check the thermostat, but the program is the same as always, so what should you do. You remember that the best way to troubleshoot something is to turn it off and back again, but that is not helping at all.
As you continue to sweat, the realization comes in your way that has entered the point of AC emergency. However, you are not prepared for such an event. What should you do?
Start Slow and Avoid Panicking
Even though the typical emergency reaction is anxiety and panic, that will not help you deal with an issue. That is the main reason why you should take a deep breath and check out the circuit breaker.
In the best-case scenario, the problem happened due to a power surge, which leads to a breaker. You have to flip it, and everything will be as before.
However, if you still experience problems with an AC unit, you should check the thermostat; check whether it has batteries and power.
If the thermostat works properly, you should check out the air filter because a dirty filter can reduce airflow and reduce comfort within your household. Check out the outside unit, because sometimes, debris and leaves can clog it.
At the same time, you should check out the state of the coils. They can be either frozen or dirty, which can affect your overall system and cause severe issues.
If you are not sure how to do it yourself, you should check out this article on how to hire AC companies, which will help you with the overall process.
Burning Smell
The next emergency issue that you should not neglect is the smell of electrical wires burning or smoke. In case you notice it, we recommend you stop doing the things we have mentioned in the first heading and shut the entire power off as soon as possible.
You should check out around for fire, and if something is smoking or burning, call the fire department. If you notice the smell without active fire and burning, it means that your AC system has a severe issue, and you need to find a professional service to help you deal with it.
Find Emergency Service from Your Area
In case troubleshooting had not helped you, we recommend you to find professional help. Remember that most experienced technicians already know how to inspect and detect the problem, which will prevent further issues.
When you call the service, you should let them know that you have an emergency so that they can reach your household on time. Most of them will ask you general questions that will help them understand the severity of a problem.
Simultaneously, by answering these questions, you will help them create a plan and bring potential parts that will help you deal with an issue.
Use the Alternative Cooling Methods
It is essential to have spare options in case your AC units break down. Yes, we are talking about obsolete fans that can help you during the hot summer days.
Even though you keep them in the basement or attic, as something that reminds you of the past, they effectively cool down your house.
On this site: https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/maintaining-your-air-conditioner you can learn the regulations that come with AC maintenance.
At the same time, you should close curtains and keep the home as dark as possible, which will prevent sunlight from entering your home.
The idea is to keep the cold air in your home as long as possible, which is why you should avoid opening windows when you reach the desired temperature.
Finally, you should drink water to prevent overheating issues that may happen. Always keep extra water around, which will help you deal with the excessive heat until the help comes.
