AC Emergency?
Try This First
Quick Answer
AC stopped working in South Florida? Follow our 5-step emergency troubleshooting guide below. If these steps don't work, call (305) 555-0134 immediately for 24/7 emergency service.
⚠️ STOP - Safety First!
5-Step Emergency Troubleshooting Guide
If your situation is safe (no burning smells, sparks, or water leaks), try these steps in order:
Check Your Thermostat
Verify thermostat is set to 'cool' and temperature is below room temperature. Replace batteries if display is dim.
Thermostat Checklist:
- • Set to "Cool" not "Heat" or "Auto"
- • Temperature set 5° below room temperature
- • Display is bright and clear
- • Fan setting on "Auto" or "On"
Inspect Air Filter
Remove and check air filter. If dirty or clogged, replace immediately as this blocks airflow and causes system strain.
Filter Replacement Tips:
- • In Florida, change monthly during peak season
- • Filter should be white/clean, not gray/dirty
- • Arrow on filter points toward unit
- • Never run AC without a filter
Check Circuit Breakers
Look at your electrical panel for tripped breakers. Reset any that are in the middle position, then flip fully off and back on.
Breaker Reset Steps:
- • Look for "AC", "Air Handler", or "Heat Pump" labels
- • Tripped breakers are in middle position
- • Flip completely OFF first, then ON
- • Wait 5 minutes before testing AC
Examine Outdoor Unit
Clear any debris, leaves, or vegetation within 2 feet of outdoor unit. Ensure unit is level and not blocked.
Outdoor Unit Inspection:
- • Remove leaves, grass, and debris
- • Check for bent or damaged fins
- • Ensure 2-foot clearance all around
- • Listen for unusual noises when running
Call Professionals
If these steps don't resolve the issue, contact licensed HVAC technicians immediately to prevent further damage.
Common AC Emergency Scenarios
🌡️ AC Running But Not Cooling
Most Likely Causes:
- • Dirty air filter (check first!)
- • Low refrigerant
- • Frozen evaporator coil
- • Blocked outdoor unit
Try This:
Replace filter, clear outdoor unit, wait 1 hour. If still not cooling, call for service.
🔇 AC Won't Turn On At All
Most Likely Causes:
- • Tripped circuit breaker
- • Thermostat malfunction
- • Blown fuse
- • Power outage effects
Try This:
Check breakers first, then thermostat batteries. If no response, call immediately.
💧 Water Leaking From AC
Most Likely Causes:
- • Clogged condensate drain
- • Frozen coil melting
- • Cracked drain pan
- • High humidity issues
Try This:
Turn off AC immediately, clean up water, call for emergency service to prevent damage.
🔊 Strange Noises
Noise Types & Meanings:
- • Grinding: Motor bearing issues
- • Screeching: Belt or motor problems
- • Banging: Loose parts or debris
- • Clicking: Electrical issues
Action Required:
Turn off system immediately for loud/unusual noises. Call for diagnosis before damage worsens.
🚨 AC Emergency?
Fast emergency service in South Florida
✅ When DIY Worked
Great! If our troubleshooting steps fixed your AC, here's how to prevent future emergencies:
- • Change filters monthly in summer
- • Schedule annual maintenance
- • Keep outdoor unit clear
- • Monitor for unusual sounds
Emergency AC FAQ
My AC is running but my house isn't getting cool—what's wrong?
This usually indicates a refrigerant leak, dirty air filter, or blocked condenser unit. Check your air filter first—if it's dirty, replace it. If the problem persists, you likely need professional service. Our technicians can diagnose the issue within 2 hours and provide same-day repairs in most cases.
It's 95°F outside and my AC just died—how fast can someone get here?
We guarantee a 2-hour response time for emergency calls throughout South Florida. Our dispatch team will connect you with the nearest licensed technician, and you'll receive their contact info and estimated arrival time within 15 minutes of calling (305) 555-0134.
Should I turn off my AC breaker if it's making weird noises?
Yes, unusual noises like grinding, screeching, or banging should prompt you to turn off the system immediately. These sounds often indicate mechanical problems that can cause expensive damage if ignored. Turn off the breaker and call us—we can usually diagnose noise issues quickly and prevent major repairs.