What Should I Do if My AC Stops Working Suddenly?
When your air conditioner suddenly stops working, it can be a stressful situation. While you can attempt to solve some issues yourself, you may need to call a professional if the AC unit still doesn’t work. Learn what to do if your AC stops working suddenly, along with who to call if you need professional help.
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Quick AC Unit Examination
If your AC suddenly stops, you can perform a few quick checks to determine the severity of the issue.
Check Thermostat
Set the thermostat to cool if it isn’t already, since its temperature must be lower than the room temperature. You should replace the batteries in a battery-powered unit. A dark screen typically indicates a problem with the actual AC unit, whereas a light screen may be a result of a programming issue. If the AC has not turned on, continue to the next step.
Inspect Circuit Breaker
The circuit breaker may have tripped, indicating that you need to reset it. You can also check the electrical panel if you know how to do it safely, but a professional is the best option.
Examine the Air Filter
The air filter may be clogged or dirty, which restricts the airflow and causes the AC to turn off. Check the filter and replace it if you notice any clear signs of blockages.
System Inspections
If the AC is still unresponsive, you should resort to a system inspection. System inspections take a little more time than quick checks, but you can still complete them if the issue is minor. Below are system-based checks to test.
Determine if the Drain Line is Clogged
The drain line is a PVC pipe that removes moisture from the AC unit and distributes it outside. A clog could cause the AC to stop working. If you notice any blockages, turn off the entire unit and use a
Check the Outdoor Unit
Beyond the drain line, there should also be a condenser outside that can become dirty. Leaves, ice, dirt and other debris can get into the machine and its fins, causing the AC to shut down. Gently clean and remove any visible debris, and determine if that resolves the AC issue.
Look for Ice
If the previous system inspections were unsuccessful in solving the problem, look for ice along the refrigerant lines or coils. If there is a noticeable issue, such as low refrigerant or a clogged filter, a more serious problem may be present. Turn off the entire system and wait for it to thaw.
When to Call a Professional
If the above steps did not fix the AC problem, then you should call a professional. The following are other clear signs you should contact a technician.
Excessive Noise
Loud noises from your unit likely indicate a motor issue or a broken component. You should not attempt to fix these problems on your own. Professionals need to replace those parts before a more significant issue arises.
Burning or Electrical Odors
If you smell burning or an electrical odor, then the AC unit and the home’s residents may be in immediate danger. Quickly turn off the system at the breaker and call a technician. Alert the fire department if there is smoke, sparks or flames. An issue like this may require a complete replacement.
Short-Cycling
If you notice that the AC unit is short-cycling, meaning the system turns off and on periodically, there could be several root causes that require a licensed professional. Short-cycling also fails to cool rooms adequately, as the room can heat back up during the periods when it is not running.
Methodology for Choosing a Reputable HVAC Service
More serious AC unit concerns require professional help. Many companies offer specialized HVAC services, but you want to select the most reputable one. The following are some basic criteria to assess each option.
Licensed
The service should have a legitimate license to repair AC units. Without a license, they may mislead you or provide incorrect information, which can prolong the process and result in additional costs.
Insured
Insurance holds the repair provider accountable for fixing your AC unit properly and protects homeowners from some financial liabilities. It also reassures you that they are a reputable company.
Relevant Experience
The company and staff must demonstrate relevant experience dealing with AC units. They may sell products themselves or provide services throughout your local area. Other indicators include years in the business and the staff’s credentials.
Good Reviews
You should check the reviews on each service from verified customers to ensure accuracy. Usually, good reviews indicate that the company is reputable and will not cause further damage to your AC unit.
Transparent Pricing
The service must provide transparent pricing, since hidden fees and double-layered guarantees can become more costly than you anticipated. Always read the fine print to avoid any surprises.
Thorough Communication
You never know when an AC unit could shut down, so clear and thorough customer support is ideal. Read through each company’s customer service policy to ensure it meets your expectations. Consistent service is also reliable for emergencies.
Top HVAC Service Companies
Browse the top HVAC service providers below and determine the best fit for your cooling needs.
1. Strada
Strada is the top HVAC service company, providing AC repairs to homes and businesses. It offers annual and as-needed maintenance services to clean, repair and replace parts of the unit. The company offers two maintenance plans for your convenience, which are Classic and Premium. Benefits of choosing Strada for repairs include a flexible schedule, one-day replacements, priority customer service, fewer repairs and extended equipment life.
To avoid instant shutdowns, Strada performs maintenance using a multipoint AC maintenance checklist. If you have an issue, the company sends its highly trained and certified technicians to repair your unit. Strada offers special coupons and pricing options.
2. Service Experts
Service Experts is a solid option for AC unit repairs. It features ACE-certified technicians and quick, efficient processes. Its Service Experts Guarantee ensures reliable services and cooling solutions, and the professionals are licensed and insured. The Maintenance+ and Service Experts Advantage membership services are available to help manage costs.
Service Experts performs minor repairs or major replacements, depending on the individual job. It can also provide scheduled maintenance surveys with an established checklist to ensure all parts of the AC unit are working properly.
3. One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning
One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning provides many services, including installations, repairs, replacements and routine maintenance. It diagnoses problems quickly and provides practical HVAC solutions. In the event of an emergency, the company can perform repairs 24/7.
While based in Cincinnati, One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning has several sister companies for expanded outreach. You can purchase a maintenance membership to receive routine checks and avoid abrupt shutdowns. One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning also provides flexible scheduling and transparent pricing.
4. Haller Enterprises
Haller Enterprises has experience working with AC units since 1981. Its service area covers central and eastern Pennsylvania. Services include designing and installing systems with personal attention and expert knowledge. The team comprises experts and background-checked technicians.
The company has up front pricing to ensure you pay the expected cost without hidden expenses. Maintenance plans are also available for routine system checks. Haller Enterprises conveniently works with all brands of AC units.
5. The Home Depot
The Home Depot offers AC repair services to homeowners nationwide. It can even provide a complementary second opinion on assessments in case you are unsure about the initial inspection. To take advantage of the company’s process, you must first request a diagnostic test, then get recommendations and an estimate. Finally, the skilled staff will either repair or replace the AC unit.
If technicians perform repairs during the diagnostic test, then they waive the diagnostic fee. There are also no after-hours fees for emergency calls.
6. Sears Home Services
Sears Home Services has completed over 3 million repairs and employs over 1,500 technicians. Its parent company was founded in 1886, so the company has spent many years expanding and perfecting its services. The Sears Home Services process involves obtaining an accurate diagnosis of the issue, replacing any key components, performing regular maintenance checks, and installing or upgrading units as needed.
It features transparent pricing and flexible scheduling. Sears Home Services also uses genuine manufacturer parts and works with certified installers. For emergencies, the company offers same-day or next-day appointments.
7. The Best HVAC
The Best HVAC can provide fast and reliable repairs and tune-ups for malfunctioning AC units. The company is based in Pennsylvania and is available 24 hours a day for emergencies. It also offers routine maintenance services to keep your system working year-round.
The team is fully trained, licensed and insured, which demonstrates authority. There are many positive reviews from previous customers highlighting The Best HVAC’s extensive knowledge, fair pricing and quick repairs. It also offers special deals for customer savings.
8. Triangle
Operating since 2014, Triangle offers same-day AC unit repairs at reasonable prices. It serves homes in Bellefonte, PA, and surrounding areas. The company has skilled, knowledgeable technicians who are licensed and insured. Customers can receive complimentary second opinions if they are concerned about the initial diagnosis.
Triangle has a 100% satisfaction guarantee and has garnered numerous positive reviews from customers, enhancing its credibility as a dependable HVAC service provider.
9. Topline
Topline is a licensed, bonded and insured contractor that serves Pennsylvania, Ohio and New York. A knowledgeable HVAC expert can identify the issue with your system and discuss potential solutions, such as a repair or replacement. It offers 24/7 customer service.
The company offers financing options to cover the initial cost of repairs and provides warranties for unit protection. There are also featured specials to help customers save money on services.
Comparing AC Service Providers
Consider what sets each company apart to find the best one to contact when your AC stops working suddenly.
| Company | Key Features | ||
| Strada | Classic and Premium maintenance plans | One-day replacements | Multipoint AC maintenance checklist |
| Service Experts | ACE-certified technicians | Maintenance+ and Service Experts Advantage membership options | Backed by Service Experts Guarantee |
| One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning | Provides repairs 24/7 | Has sister companies for extended reach | Maintenance membership |
| Haller Enterprises | Years of experience since 1981 | Up front pricing | Background-checked technicians |
| The Home Depot | Free second opinion | Nationwide chain | No after-hours fees |
| Sears Home Services | Experience dating back to 1886 | Transparent pricing | Same-day or next-day appointments |
| The Best HVAC | Fast and reliable repairs | Team of professionals | 24-hour service |
| Triangle | Operating since 2014 | Skilled, knowledgeable technicians | Licensed and insured |
| Topline | Many financing options | Fully licensed, insured and bonded HVAC experts | Warranties for unit protection |
How to Prevent Sudden Shutdowns
To prevent future AC unit shutdowns, consider the following steps to maintain your system and address any necessary repairs.
Request Regular Professional Maintenance
Instead of waiting until a sudden shutdown, get ahead of issues by working to prevent them. Partner with a professional to perform regular maintenance on the AC unit to address any concerns. If the professional identifies an issue, they can request replacements and make the necessary fixes before a shutdown occurs. You can schedule monthly or yearly appointments.
Consider a Smart Thermostat
Smart thermostats efficiently perform AC unit tasks like adjusting temperatures, managing the room capacity and other smart capabilities. This technology can help you get the most out of your AC. They also monitor the system to detect concerns, alerting users when a blockage, broken part or another issue arises.
Handle AC Units With Care
AC units are complex machines that require specific repairs and care to run smoothly and efficiently. When it suddenly shuts down, you can sometimes perform a few checks to diagnose and fix the problem yourself. If none of those checks help, then you should call a professional. Evaluate a potential HVAC service provider’s expertise, pricing, availability and more.
