Extreme summer heat has elevated indoor air conditioning from a luxury to an absolute necessity for survival. Record high temperatures and an even higher heat index can cause exhaustion, fainting, dehydration, or a stroke that could lead to death within a short amount of time. Keep yourself, your pets, and the rest of the family safe by understanding how to prevent system failure and what to do in an air conditioning repair emergency.
A Little Maintenance Lasts All Season
As important as air conditioning is for all homeowners, it might be surprising to find out how little care they take for basic maintenance. Central and window units have components exposed to outdoor conditions throughout the year that can cause damage and wear. Local companies often provide a discount package for regular maintenance to ensure that everything is clean and functioning properly. People that prefer to get more hands on are urged to have a professional come out annually for an in-depth inspection.
Factors that can cause a poorly cooling unit include the following:
- A dirty, clogged filter
- Low coolant level
- Dusty components
- Malfunctioning components
Of course, there are other reasons that the home or certain rooms are not being cooled, but these all are issues with the air conditioner specifically. Leaking ducts or poor insulation is not going to cause a sudden issues the way that the unit itself can. Remember that maintenance before the weather heats up is the best way to identify problems and have them fixed ahead of time.
Emergency Air Conditioning Repair Steps
Most people realize that their air conditioner is in need of repair is in the middle of a hot day. Noticing that your unit is only circulating hot air as you begin to pour sweat can cause a panic. However, it does not mean anyone has to suffer waiting for a repairman. Although a lot of companies offer service around the clock, good luck finding one that doesn’t have a full day of repairs on their plate.
According to Atlas heating & Air Services, the worst thing to do is wait inside closed up without cool air flowing. They say, “If it’s tolerable, turn on the indoor fans and open the house up. In hotter states, like Texas or Arizona, it may be impossible to survive the dry heat without real air conditioning.”
Take breaks to cool off in the car or take the family out to a public place. Window shopping at the mall is a great way to soak in the free air conditioning and keep the kids entertained. Pets are also sensitive to extreme heat so leave them in the comfort of a willing neighbor if you leave the home. Do not travel more than a few minutes away so that you can make it back quickly when needed. Hang a note for the repairman with your cell phone number so that you can meet up with them promptly. Most do not mind waiting 10 minutes in their car, but count on others to be in a rush and not willing to wait for long.
New Air Conditioner Shopping Tips
Depending on the severity of damage, repairs can get expensive or require a full replacement. The older a unit gets, the more likely it is to need an update to a more energy efficient model. Energy Star rated products follow a strict guideline for energy conservation that helps the environment by cutting down on consumption. It is possible to find the Energy Star tag on either room air conditioners or central air units depending on a home’s original setup. Take the equipment advice of your repairman to find out which units customers are happiest with, as well as options that provide a good value.
Safety from high temperatures is the first thing that a homeowner must consider when the air conditioner is in need of immediate attention. It may sting to pay for a replacement or repair, but as Frigidaire customer Sangita Desai learned the hard way, waiting for someone else to take care of the problem may not be worth the trouble.
