Dealing with Emergency HVAC Repairs: Tips for Staying Calm and Cool

When your HVAC system stops working during a summer heatwave, it’s easy to feel stressed and overheated, literally and figuratively. Before you panic and assume the worst, it’s worth taking a few moments to check some basic things that might help you avoid a true emergency. And if you do need emergency AC repair in Tempe, AZ, there are still ways to stay safe and reasonably comfortable while you wait.

Step One: Check the Basics

Before calling for emergency HVAC service, take a quick look at a few simple, common issues that might be behind the problem:

• Thermostat Settings: Make sure your thermostat is set to “cool” and that the temperature setting is below the current room temperature. Also, check if the batteries (if it has them) are still working.
• Power Supply: Check your circuit breaker panel to see if the HVAC breaker has tripped. If it has, reset it once. If it trips again immediately, that’s a sign of a deeper electrical issue and time to call a professional.
• Air Filter: A severely clogged air filter can restrict airflow and may cause your system to shut down or run inefficiently. Replace the filter and give the system a chance to restart.
• Outdoor Unit: Inspect the outdoor condenser for visible signs of damage or blockage. Remove any leaves or debris that could be obstructing airflow.
• Condensate Drain Line: Some systems have a safety switch that shuts down the unit when the condensate drain is clogged. Look for water pooling near the indoor unit or signs that the drain pan is full.

If these steps don’t resolve the issue and your home is heating up fast, it’s time to call for emergency AC repair.

Staying Cool While You Wait

Even with prompt service, it may take hours for a technician to arrive and complete repairs—especially during peak summer months. Here’s how to keep yourself and your household as comfortable and safe as possible in the meantime:

• Close Curtains and Blinds: Sunlight streaming through windows can significantly raise indoor temperatures. Keep shades drawn, especially on windows facing the sun.
• Use Fans Strategically: Ceiling fans and box fans can help circulate air and create a wind-chill effect that makes you feel cooler. Place a bowl of ice in front of a box fan for a DIY air-chiller.
• Limit Appliance Use: Ovens, dryers, and even dishwashers generate heat. Hold off on using them until your HVAC system is back online.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help your body regulate temperature. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can contribute to dehydration.
• Cool Down Physically: Apply a cool, damp washcloth to your wrists, neck, and forehead. A cold shower or foot soak can also provide temporary relief from the heat.
• Find a Cooler Place: If indoor temperatures become dangerously high—especially for children, seniors, or pets—consider visiting a local cooling center, shopping mall, or library until repairs are complete.

Prevention Is the Best Medicine

Emergency HVAC repairs are never fun, but they’re often preventable. Regular maintenance, like seasonal inspections and filter changes, can catch issues before they lead to a breakdown. If your system is older, consider planning for a replacement before it becomes unreliable.

Staying calm, checking the basics, and knowing how to cool down can make a big difference when your AC goes out. And remember: professional help is just a phone call away.

Contact us today with questions about emergency AC repair in Tempe, AZ. Beat the Heat with Savage Air!