Emergency AC Repair: What to Do When Your AC Stops Working
AC not working in Las Vegas heat? Follow this guide to understand what constitutes an emergency and what steps to take.
What Is an AC Emergency?
Not every AC problem requires emergency service. Here's how to determine if your situation is urgent:
TRUE EMERGENCIES (Call Immediately)
- • Electrical burning smell or sparks
- • Indoor temperature above 90°F with vulnerable people (elderly, infants, medical conditions)
- • Water leaking heavily inside your home
- • Strange loud noises (grinding, screeching)
- • AC won't turn off (short cycling can damage system)
URGENT (Same-Day Service Recommended)
- • AC not cooling during Las Vegas summer heat wave
- • Refrigerant leak (system won't cool, ice on lines)
- • Thermostat not responding
- • AC unit making unusual clicking sounds
NON-EMERGENCY (Schedule Regular Service)
- • AC cooling but not as efficiently as usual
- • Routine maintenance needed
- • Filter replacement
- • Annual tune-up
Immediate Steps to Take
Before calling for emergency service, try these troubleshooting steps:
1. Check Your Thermostat
- • Is it set to "COOL" mode?
- • Is the temperature set below room temperature?
- • Are the batteries dead?
2. Check Your Circuit Breaker
Look for tripped breakers in your electrical panel. AC units typically have two breakers - one for the indoor unit and one for the outdoor unit.
3. Check Your Air Filter
A severely clogged filter can cause your AC to stop working. If it's dirty, replace it immediately.
4. Check the Outdoor Unit
- • Is it running?
- • Is it blocked by debris?
- • Is the disconnect switch on?
When to Call for Emergency AC Service
Call for emergency service immediately if:
- • Your troubleshooting steps didn't work
- • Indoor temperature exceeds 85°F and rising
- • You detect burning smells or electrical issues
- • You have vulnerable household members (elderly, young children, medical conditions)
- • Your AC is making dangerous sounds (grinding, screeching)
Emergency Service Costs
After-hours emergency service typically costs:
- • Trip charge: $100-$200 (vs. $75-$100 regular hours)
- • Diagnostic fee: $150-$300 (vs. $100-$150 regular hours)
- • Labor rate: 1.5x-2x regular hourly rate
If the repair is complex, it may be more cost-effective to wait until regular business hours unless it's a true emergency.
How to Stay Safe While Waiting for Service
If you're waiting for a technician in Las Vegas summer heat:
- • Stay hydrated - Drink water every 15-20 minutes
- • Use fans - Circulate air even if it's warm
- • Close blinds - Block direct sunlight
- • Go to a cool location - Library, mall, or friend's house if necessary
- • Wear light clothing - Loose, light-colored fabrics
- • Take cool showers - Help regulate body temperature
- • Monitor vulnerable people - Check on elderly, children, and pets frequently
⚠️ Signs of Heat Emergency:
If anyone shows signs of heat exhaustion (dizziness, nausea, rapid heartbeat), move them to a cool location and call 911 if symptoms worsen.
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