What to Do If Your AC Gives Out In the Middle of the Night

You wake up in the middle of the night, drenched in sweat and feeling suffocated. You try to turn on your air conditioning unit, but nothing happens. Panic sets in as you realize your AC has given out and you’re left to suffer the hot, humid night. But wait—isn’t there something called 24-hour HVAC repair?

If you find yourself in a similar situation, here are a few things you can do to navigate through the night until a professional can fix your AC.

Summer Causes Many, Many AC Failures

AC failures are most common during the summer. With temperatures soaring high and air conditioners running almost non-stop, these units often malfunction—especially if you don’t schedule regular AC maintenance. Plus, heat waves are a huge cause of power grid failures that leave your AC well…powerless.

AC Woes You Might Experience and Their Solution

Now, let’s get to the bottom of your AC failure. Here are the most common issues and how you can address them temporarily while you wait for the 24-hour HVAC repair team;

Not Turning On

If your air conditioning unit is not turning on at all, there could be a few reasons:

  • Circuit Breaker Tripped: Check your circuit breaker and make sure it hasn’t tripped. If it has, reset it and try turning on your AC again.
  • Dirty Air Filter: A dirty air filter can cause your AC to overheat and shut down. Check your air filter and replace it if necessary.

Blowing Hot Air

If your AC is blowing hot air instead of cold, it could be due to:

  • Low Refrigerant Levels: This means you have a refrigerant leak that needs to be fixed by a professional. Until then, you can try turning off your AC and using fans to circulate the air.
  • Dirty Condenser Coils: Dirty condenser coils must be cleaned by a professional.

Making Strange Noises

Unusual noises coming from your AC can signal a more serious issue. If you hear any of the following noises, turn off your AC and call a 24-hour HVAC repair team:

  • Squealing: This could indicate a malfunctioning belt or motor bearing.
  • Grinding: A grinding noise could mean that your AC’s motor bearings are worn out.
  • Buzzing/Humming: This could signify an electrical issue or a failing compressor.

Reduced Airflow

If your air conditioning unit is not blowing enough air, it could be due to:

  • Clogged Air Ducts: If your air ducts are clogged with debris or dust, it can restrict airflow. You can try cleaning them yourself or calling a professional.
  • Dirty Evaporator Coil: A dirty evaporator coil can also cause reduced airflow. This is best left to a professional to clean.
  • Leaking Air Ducts: If your air ducts are leaking, it can cause cool air to escape before reaching your living space. Call a professional to fix the leaks.

Leaking Water

Notice water leaking from your AC unit? Here’s what you can do:

  • Clogged Drain Line: A clogged drain line can cause water to back up and leak out of your AC unit. Try unclogging it using a wet/dry vacuum.
  • Frozen Evaporator Coil: If your evaporator coil is frozen, it can cause water to drip out of your AC unit. Turn off your AC and let the ice melt before calling a professional.
  • Leaking Refrigerant: A refrigerant leak can also cause water to leak from your AC unit. This is a more serious issue that needs to be fixed by a professional.

How Can 24-Hour HVAC Repair With Triad Mechanical Help?

Now that you know the possible reasons for your AC failure, it’s time to call in the professionals. Triad Mechanical offers 24-hour HVAC repair services, so no matter what time of day or night your AC gives out, you can count on us to fix it. Our technicians are trained and experienced in handling all types of AC failures.

Don’t suffer through a hot, sleepless night—give us a call, and our 24-hour HVAC repair team will have your AC up and running in no time!