What To Do When Faced With An HVAC Emergency In Your Home

19 February 2021
 Categories: , Blog

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Most households depend on HVAC systems for heating, cooling, and ventilation throughout the year. If the system breaks down during operation, it can lead to indoor discomfort, especially during the summer and winter. Therefore, it is in your best interest to address the emergency immediately to restore normal operations. Below are some crucial steps to undertake when faced with an HVAC emergency in your home.

Identify the Problem

Not everything qualifies as an HVAC emergency. Therefore, before you panic, identify the problem and determine whether it's truly an emergency. Is your AC not cooling? Could the problem be because you forgot to program the thermostat? Is it because your filters are clogged and haven't been cleaned in a long time? Before calling the experts, check to make sure the problem isn't a result of mere human error.

Mitigate Potential Hazards

Some HVAC emergencies can expose household occupants to hazards. For example, if the cooling or heating system overheats, the outdoor unit can pose fire hazards in your home. Shut off the entire system to avoid starting a fire and further damaging the system. Other emergencies that require you to switch off the units include:

  • A burning smell in the outdoor unit
  • Smoke coming from your heating unit or air conditioner
  • Burnt wiring
  • Leaking fuel lines

These hazards can pose safety risks in your home, especially if you leave the heating and cooling system on. Also, if you have a heat exchanger, inspect it for physical damage. A cracked heat exchanger can leak carbon monoxide (CO) and expose your loved ones to carbon monoxide poisoning. If you suspect a CO leak, stay outside the house where there's free airflow until you get help from an HVAC contractor.

Contact Emergency Services

HVAC emergencies should be handled by a professional. Do not attempt DIY repairs as they could cause further damage and expose you to injury. Contact an emergency HVAC service for help. 24-hour emergency firms operate during the weekends and holidays. For a fast response, find a firm within your city. Provide as many details as possible, so the contractor can carry the right tools and equipment for speedy diagnosis and repairs.

Set Up Future Prevention Measures

Most HVAC emergencies are avoidable with proper system maintenance. Committing to a maintenance schedule can extend your system's lifespan and eliminate safety hazards in your home. Thus, after the repairs, create a quarterly, bi-annual, and annual HVAC maintenance schedule. During these visits, your contractor can identify potential problems and fix them before they result in an emergency.

When dealing with an HVAC emergency, it's crucial to safeguard your safety and protect your units from further damage. Contact an HVAC emergency service immediately for professional help.

Learn more about 24-hour emergency HVAC services by clicking here.