The heat wave is well on its way. As the temperatures climb, air conditioning units have to work harder to maintain a cool climate indoors. If your unit breaks down, it’s important to have an action plan.

If your home is without air conditioning in this heat, take these troubleshooting steps to make sure you spend the minimum amount of time possible without cooling relief.

1. Check/Reset Your Thermostat

Sometimes, programmable thermostats can malfunction. A common mistake is to program your system to turn air conditioners off when they should be on. If your air goes out suddenly, you can check to make sure it is a machinery issue by resetting your thermostat and then turning on the air.

2. Check the Circuit Breaker

When the air conditioning is on full blast, it can cause surges in electricity use. This may trip the circuit breaker, causing the power supply to be temporarily cut off. Before calling a professional, check your circuit breaker to see if the switch has been flipped. If so, flip it back to see if the air conditioning comes back on.

3. Stay Up-to-Date on the Details on Your Unit

Air conditioning units over 10 years old are more likely to fail and require repairs. If your home is equipped with older air conditioning, it may be time to upgrade. Otherwise, you could be in for numerous a/c meltdowns.

4. Check for Electrical/Water Damage

When it comes to a broken air conditioner, you want to expect the worst and hope for the best. If it is not a circuit breaker or thermostat problem, inspect your air conditioner for damage. Rusted/leaking tubes, smoke and debris collected around the unit are all signs your air conditioner may need repair.

5. Have Alternate Air Conditioning Solutions

If your main source of air conditioning goes out, it is important to have a back-up. From fans to window units, there are a number of affordable air conditioning solutions you can purchase until your home system is repaired or upgraded.

6. Call Us!

During a heat wave, there is a surge in calls requesting air conditioning repairs and service. We always try to get to everyone as quickly as possible. We do offer after hours and weekend emergency calls to service club members and warranty customers. Otherwise, we will get back to you on the next business day first thing in the morning to get you scheduled.

Pro Tip: Stay Up With Maintenance

The best way to avoid a summer breakdown is to keep your air conditioner in top shape. By replacing air filters, draining lines and checking refrigerant levels in the late spring, you can be sure your air conditioner is prepared for a long hot summer. Call us at 860-314-1518 to schedule your annual maintenance and we’ll make sure everything is taken care of so you have nothing to worry about once the heat waves hit!