When the sweltering temperatures of a Texas summer hit, few things are more frustrating—and potentially dangerous—than your air conditioning breaking down. If you’re facing an unexpected AC outage during extreme heat, staying safe and taking the right steps is crucial. Here’s what to do when your AC breaks in extreme heat, along with expert tips from Justice Inc., one of the best air conditioning and heating companies in Corpus Christi, Texas.
Stay Safe and Cool Immediately
The first step when your AC fails is to focus on your health and safety. Extreme heat can lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke, particularly for children, the elderly, and pets.
Hydrate Continuously
Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Avoid caffeine and alcohol as they can contribute to dehydration.
Move to the Coolest Room
Seek out the coolest room in your home, typically the lowest level or a room with less sun exposure. Close off that room and hang out there while you plan your next steps.
Block Out the Sun
Shut curtains or blinds to keep sunlight from heating up your home. If you have reflective shades or blackout curtains, now’s the time to use them.
Use Fans Wisely
Ceiling fans can help circulate air, but don’t expect them to actually lower the room temperature. Try placing a bowl of ice in front of a box fan to create a DIY cooling system. Also, turn on exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathroom to pull hot air out.
Try Troubleshooting Before Calling a Technician
Before you panic or reach for the phone, check for some common issues that might be easy to resolve on your own.
Check the Thermostat
Make sure your thermostat is set to “cool” and hasn’t been inadvertently switched to “off” or “heat.” Replace batteries if necessary.
Inspect the Circuit Breaker
Sometimes, a tripped breaker is all that’s behind an AC unit not working. Check your electrical panel and reset the breaker if needed.
Examine the Air Filter
A dirty or clogged air filter can cause the system to shut down or work inefficiently. Replace the filter and see if that helps.
If none of these steps resolve the issue, it’s time to contact a professional.
Call the Experts – Justice Inc.
When DIY fixes don’t work, don’t risk further damage to your AC system. Call in the experts at Justice Inc., one of Corpus Christi’s top-rated air conditioning and heating companies. Their team of certified technicians can quickly diagnose and fix the problem, restoring comfort to your home as fast as possible.
Justice Inc. is known for fast response times, transparent pricing, and expert service. Whether it’s a blown capacitor, refrigerant leak, or a failing compressor, they’ve seen it all—and fixed it.
While You Wait for Repairs
Even after scheduling a repair, you might have to wait a few hours or even a day depending on technician availability. Here’s how to keep cool while you wait:
Head Somewhere Air Conditioned
If the heat becomes unbearable, consider going to a local library, mall, or even a friend’s house with working AC. If you’re in Corpus Christi, many community centers offer cooling stations during extreme heat advisories.
Take Cold Showers
Cool down your body temperature by taking a cold shower or applying cold, damp towels to your wrists, neck, and ankles.
Avoid Heat-Generating Activities
Don’t use the oven, stove, or other heat-producing appliances. Stick to cold meals or microwave options.
Preventative Maintenance to Avoid Future Breakdowns
The best way to deal with a broken AC is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Schedule regular maintenance with a trusted company like Justice Inc. They offer seasonal tune-ups, filter replacements, and inspections that can identify and fix small issues before they turn into major problems.
Justice Inc. also provides maintenance plans for homeowners in Corpus Christi and surrounding areas, ensuring your HVAC system remains efficient and reliable year-round.
When to Replace Instead of Repair
Sometimes, repairing an aging AC unit may not be the most cost-effective choice. If your system is more than 10-15 years old, frequently needs repairs, or no longer cools your home effectively, it might be time for a replacement.
Justice Inc. offers expert consultations to help you choose the right energy-efficient unit for your home and budget. Their team will walk you through the installation process and ensure everything is up to code and optimized for peak performance.
Conclusion
Knowing what to do when your AC breaks in extreme heat can make a big difference for your safety and comfort. Start by staying cool, attempting basic troubleshooting, and then call in trusted professionals like Justice Inc. in Corpus Christi, Texas. With their experience and commitment to excellence, your home will be back to a comfortable temperature in no time.
Don’t sweat it—Justice Inc. has you covered when the heat is on.