The odor of melting plastic, strange noises, unusual electrical occurrences, improper or inconsistent cooling, and ice formation on your air-conditioning system are some of the warning signs of your cooling system needing repair. Read on to learn more about how to handle emergency AC service.
Steps to Take When You Need Emergency AC Service
Before calling for emergency service, you should check to see if the air filter is clogged, the AC unit has power, and the thermostat has been set correctly. If the air conditioner still doesn’t work after checking these issues, you’ll need to have your system checked by a professional. It’s crucial to call for emergency AC service if you have children, elderly family members, or pets in your home.
Some AC emergencies, particularly the smell of burnt wiring, require you to switch off your AC system entirely before calling for emergency repair. Foul, melting-plastic odors carry a fire risk.
While waiting for emergency service, you can do several things to stay safe and comfortable:
- Cover your windows. Direct sunlight increases the temperature in your home. Keep curtains and blinds closed.
- Run the ceiling fans. Fans help you feel cooler, improve airflow, and prevent hot air from accumulating close to your ceiling. Set your ceiling fans to run at medium or high speeds. Bowls of ice in front of box fans also create cooling airflow. Just ensure that you keep any condensation the ice produces away from the fans and their power cords.
- Avoid using heat-generating items. If your air conditioner isn’t cooling, you should try to avoid adding more heat to your home. Don’t use your oven or stove or run the dryer or dishwasher, because these appliances add excess heat to your home. Electronics like computers, video games, and TVs also generate heat, so it’s a good idea to keep them off.
Remember that ignoring an AC problem could lead to a complete system breakdown. Therefore, call for emergency AC service whenever you need it. Contact the cooling experts at Ace Hardware Home Services if you need an emergency or routine AC service check in the Dayton area.