We all dread when our air conditioners break down, especially during the hot summer months. Homeowners often feel overwhelmed and don't know what to do or where to turn for help in these situations. But there are a few things you should keep in mind if your AC unit stops working. This means not only understanding what you should do, but also what you shouldn’t do if your home’s air conditioner breaks down.
In this blog post, we will be discussing common mistakes homeowners make when their home’s air conditioner breaks down.
Things You Shouldn’t Do if Your Home’s Air Conditioner Breaks Down
When your home’s air conditioning system breaks down, understandably, you want to get it back up and running quickly. Unfortunately, this kind of attitude can lead to homeowners making poor decisions regarding what to do when their AC breaks. The following are a list of things that you shouldn’t do if your air conditioner breaks down:
- Don’t try to fix it yourself. In the middle of a hot summer day, the last thing you want is for your air conditioner to break down. Unfortunately, it happens. If it does, please don’t try to fix your AC yourself. Air conditioners require specialist skills and knowledge to repair, and attempting to repair it yourself could do more harm than good. The best thing to do is to leave it to the professionals who have the experience and tools to get your air conditioner back up and running in no time. Not only will this save you time, but it will also give you peace of mind knowing that the AC repair has been done correctly.
- Don’t ignore the issue. Your AC is a lifesaver during those scorching summer days. It’s your reliable friend that keeps your home cool and comfortable. But sometimes, even the most dependable air conditioning unit can have issues. Perhaps it’s making strange noises, not cooling the room as it should, or emitting a strange odor. Whatever the case may be, it’s important not to ignore the problem. The longer you wait, the worse it can get. Taking immediate action may seem like a hassle, but it’s essential to catch any potential AC issues before they turn into major disasters.
- Don’t keep using your AC unit. Using a broken AC for too long can lead to more strain on the system and further complications. What may initially seem like a minor issue could quickly snowball into a costly headache. It's crucial to address any problems with your AC promptly to avoid exacerbating the situation.
- Don’t do anything to make your home hotter. If you're waiting for a technician to fix your air conditioning system, it's best to avoid creating more heat in your home. Don't use your oven to cook dinner. Instead, eat something cold or use your outdoor grill. Turn off lights and unplug electronics to reduce heat output. Avoid using the dishwasher or clothes dryer, which can also add heat to your home. When showering, be sure to use the exhaust fan to remove any excess moisture and heat. By following these simple guidelines, you can make your wait for air conditioning repair more bearable and keep your home as cool as possible.
- Don’t stay inside if you can help it. It doesn't take long for your home to become unbearably hot when your AC breaks down. After scheduling a professional repair service, find a place to cool off while you wait for the technician to arrive. A community center, shopping mall, movie theater, or library with air conditioning are great choices. If those aren't available, ask a neighbor, family member, or friend if you can stay cool in their home until your AC is fixed. Do what you can to stay cool and comfortable while your AC is being repaired.
- Don’t try to use your freezer or refrigerator to cool your home. Don't rely on your refrigerator and freezer to cool down your entire house. Not only will it be ineffective, but it will also put unnecessary strain on your appliances and could even damage them.
- Don’t open your doors and windows if it’s hot outside. Keep your windows, doors, blinds, and drapes closed on hot days when your AC is broken. Resist the urge to let in more heat by cracking open a window. If you don't have a portable AC unit, we recommend investing in one or two as a temporary solution. Ceiling fans and floor fans are not effective replacements for AC. They're meant to cool you off, not the room. Be sure to stay hydrated while you wait for a technician to fix your AC but avoid opening the windows unless it's breezy outside.
To learn what to do if your home’s AC breaks down, call Blazer Heating, Air, and Plumbing at (804) 277-2458 or contact us online today. To learn more about Blazer Heating, Air, and Plumbing, check out our customers’ reviews. Ask about our financing options and specials!