In our climate, air conditioning isn’t a luxury. It’s absolutely necessary at certain times of year for your comfort, and a lack of AC can pose serious health risks. So when something goes wrong with your air conditioner, you have to take it seriously. You can’t just ignore it.
Air conditioner repair is essential when your cooling system isn’t providing the relief you need, or is exhibiting strange symptoms that could lead to a major breakdown. But that doesn’t mean that every AC problem requires immediate action. When is an AC repair an actual emergency? We’ll share some guidelines that might help you make that decision.
Start with Basic Troubleshooting
There’s a chance that you don’t need AC repair at all! You might be able to resolve your own problem with some very simple troubleshooting steps. Actual maintenance or repair needs to be performed by a professional, for a wide range of reasons from your personal safety to the wellbeing of your AC unit to making sure you don’t void your warranty. But you should definitely check on these things:
- The Electrical Panel: Could it be that your air conditioner just tripped a circuit breaker? Have a look, and reset it if that’s the case. If it keeps tripping, you have an electrical issue with the AC unit, but if it doesn’t, then congratulations! You’ve solved your problem.
- The Thermostat: Almost anything—a stray elbow, a curious pet, a mischievous child, a well-intentioned babysitter—can change the settings on your thermostat. It could have been bumped from cool to off or heat. It could have been set to a different temperature, or to vacation programming. Depending on the thermostat, it could even be dead or dying batteries.
- The Air Filter: If your AC is running but you’re not getting enough cool air from your vents, or the system is starting and stopping too frequently, a clogged air filter could be the culprit! Clean or replace that.
When You Do Need Repair
If you’ve determined that you can’t solve your own problem, you do need AC repair. But how urgently do you need it? Consider these factors.
- Severity: The system not running at all is a more serious problem than a rattling noise.
- Weather: If it’s warm, but not sweltering, you can go longer without AC. If it’s the middle of a heat wave, or there are very high temperatures in the forecast, you’ll need your air conditioner fixed right away.
- Timing: Is it a weekday evening, when you can call tomorrow morning for a regularly scheduled appointment? Or is it the start of a long weekend, when delaying repairs could mean three days without AC?
- Vulnerable People: If anyone in your home is over 65, under 5, pregnant, or living with certain disabilities or medical conditions, they could be at significantly higher risk of heat stroke. Don’t risk it! Get 24-hour AC repair in Orlando, FL to keep your loved ones safe and comfortable.
Contact Gary Munson Heating & Air Conditioning for air conditioning repair in Orlando, FL. You’ll be more comfortable with the best!