Key takeaways:
- Heatwaves are becoming more common in Tennessee. Your body can struggle to regulate its temperature during these extreme weather events.
- Your AC is more likely to fail during a heatwave, which can cause temperatures in your home to rise rapidly to dangerous levels.
- We go over some tips to stay safe if your AC goes out, a few troubleshooting steps you can follow, and when to call a pro.
In recent summers, Tennessee has experienced multiple extreme heat events, with heat index values climbing above 110°F in some areas. When temperatures get that high, AC problems can quickly go from being inconvenient to becoming a health concern.
In humid climates, the human body struggles to regulate its temperature above 87°F. Young children, older family members, and those with medical conditions can struggle at lower temperatures.
Another Tennessee heat wave will likely happen this summer. Here’s what you should know about AC emergencies.
What to Do If Your AC Stops Working During a Tennessee Heat Wave (Heat Wave HVAC Safety Tips)
Your AC is more likely to fail during a heat wave because it’s running overtime. Moving components can overheat, and small issues can quickly escalate into failures because your system runs around the clock.
If your AC goes out during a heat wave, safety should be your top priority:
- There is a risk of dehydration and heatstroke as temperatures and humidity rise in your home.
- If possible, send children and older family members to a neighbor’s or friend’s house so they can stay cool.
- If you can’t leave, stay in the coolest part of your home, like a basement or shaded area.
- Keep your home as cool as possible by closing blinds and using fans to create a cross breeze.
- Regulate your body temperature by applying cool, damp cloths to your skin.
- Stay hydrated and learn to recognize early signs of heatstroke so you can seek medical care if needed.
Troubleshooting Your AC During a Heatwave
Once your AC goes out, temperatures and humidity levels will rise quickly in your home. It’s fine to take 10 to 15 minutes to troubleshoot the issue, but if your AC doesn’t restart, call an emergency AC repair service.
Here’s how to troubleshoot your AC during a heatwave:
- Check that the thermostat is on and is getting power.
- Go to your electrical panel and make sure the breaker that controls power to the AC is in the on position.
- Limited air flow can cause your AC system to overwork and shut off. Check the air filter and make sure the outdoor unit (the condenser) is free of debris.
If you’ve completed this checklist and your AC is still off, call an emergency AC technician.
AC Emergency Repairs
An emergency AC repair service will send a technician to your home as fast as possible. They’ll diagnose the issue and get your HVAC system back up and running.
During heatwaves, common emergency AC repairs include:
- Replacing the compressor. This part can fail when your system is overworking.
- Installing a new fan motor. This is another moving component that can struggle or fail when your AC system cycles rapidly.
- Fixing electrical issues. Wires can corrode over time, especially in Tennessee’s humid climate. Running your AC around the clock puts extra wear and tear on aging electrical components, which can lead to failures.
- Addressing refrigerant leaks. When your AC runs constantly, even a small leak can cause the coils to freeze, which means the system can’t run.
Regardless of the issue, an emergency AC tech can pinpoint what’s wrong with your HVAC system and fix it fast.
Watch for Early Warning Signs of AC Failure
HVAC systems rarely fail without giving you a few warning signs. Keep a close eye on your AC during heatwaves, and call an AC repairman if you notice any of these signs:
- Inconsistent temperature or airflow from your air vents.
- Strange noises or smells coming from the HVAC system or ducts.
- Puddles of water are building up around your AC unit.
- Frozen coils.
It’s also a good idea to schedule a routine AC maintenance call before the summer to catch potential issues early. Running your air conditioner when any of these early warning signs are present can lead to bigger failures as issues spread through the system, resulting in costly repair bills.
Fast Emergency AC Repairs With Airstream
Airstream is your trusted AC repair service in the greater Nashville area. If your AC goes out during a heatwave, we can dispatch our emergency technicians and get the issue sorted out fast.
Give us a call at 615-413-8461 or book your AC repair online for fast and reliable service.
FAQ
When should I call for emergency AC service in Tennessee?
If your system won’t turn back on after basic troubleshooting or warm air keeps blowing, call for emergency AC service immediately. Tennessee heat waves pose real safety risks, especially for kids and older adults.
How can I stay safe if my AC stops working during a Tennessee heat wave?
Stay hydrated, move to the coolest part of your home, and use fans or damp cloths to stay cool. Heat wave HVAC safety means lowering your body temperature and avoiding heat exhaustion.
What can I do to prevent future AC breakdowns?
Schedule routine maintenance before summer, replace filters regularly, and clear debris from outdoor units. Preventive Tennessee AC repair and inspections reduce the chance of mid-summer emergencies.
Â
