What to Do in an HVAC Emergency

We tend to think that, when we need air conditioning or heating, our HVAC systems will respond to every command. And that may be the case for quite a long time. That is until your system suddenly quits. While many emergencies can be avoided, sometimes a mechanical system as complex as an HVAC unit can fail. Here, we’ll look at how to deal with an HVAC emergency and ways to reduce the odds of experiencing one.

Assess the Situation

Are you experiencing a true emergency? That depends on the reason why your AC isn’t working. Sometimes a simple problem can cause it not to work, such as the wrong setting or a tripped circuit breaker. Be proactive if the solution isn’t simple. If there’s an elderly and/or chronically ill family member or occupant in your home, extreme temperatures can be very dangerous.

In any case, if there isn’t an immediate solution, it’s best to call an HVAC professional. Air conditioner problems tend to start with one component. When a single issue isn’t dealt with promptly, the stress it can cause on other parts is often enough to trigger a cascade of failures. Then you may need to fix multiple issues, if not end up replacing the entire system. That is a much more expensive scenario.

It's therefore wise to call a contractor once you realize there’s an HVAC emergency.

Reach Out to an Experienced HVAC Repair Company

It’s imperative to have the right person check your HVAC system. Far too often, homeowners call the cheapest company they can find, only to be visited by an inexperienced service contractor. The risks include them breaking an important part, skipping key steps, and installing inferior components. On top of the problem you had, your entire system can malfunction. Just one small error can cost you a great deal of money; so, don’t dwell on investing more upfront for high-quality, skilled help.

When Am I Most Likely to Experience an HVAC Emergency?

HVAC emergencies are unpredictable. They happen suddenly and almost always at the most inconvenient time, like during a famous Los Angeles heat wave. However, there are factors that can increase the risk of experiencing one, including:

• An Aging System: Older systems are more prone to wear, efficiency problems, and breakdowns. When something stops working, it can be harder to find a replacement part when you need one most. There’s also a higher risk of major components like the fan or compressor failing. 

• Lack of Maintenance: It’s more cost-effective to invest in heating and air conditioning maintenance than to spend money on repairs and early replacement. Have your HVAC system inspected, cleaned, and tuned-up twice a year (the AC in the spring and furnace in the fall).

• When Common Issues Aren’t Corrected: A dirty air filter will force your AC to work harder and dirt can cause it to overheat and break down. Dirty condenser coils are problematic as well, while low refrigerant will make the AC run continuously and overheat. For heaters, blocked pipes, pressure issues, faulty fuses, and an aging thermostat can impact system performance.

NexGen Has All Your HVAC Repair Needs Covered

We provide 24/7 emergency HVAC repair throughout Southern California. Our company is Google Certified for Home Services and our employees are trained, certified, and background checked/verified. Vast industry knowledge allows them to resolve any AC or heater issue quickly. As a member of our X Protection Plan, tune-ups, priority service, and discounts are included. We’re committed to helping you avoid emergencies and save; but if you experience an HVAC emergency, call NexGen at 833-729-9735.