When summer heat takes over, your air conditioner becomes a necessity. Without it, your home can feel like an oven. Some problems are minor annoyances, but others require quick, professional attention. Knowing the difference is vital. 

Learn when to call for AC repair to keep your home safe, cool, and comfortable.

What Makes an AC Problem an Emergency?

If an AC problem threatens your health, home, or safety, it needs urgent attention. Certain issues can wait. You can schedule standard AC repairs, like filter replacement, during business hours. Emergency repairs address urgent situations. 

Ask yourself one question: Does this problem put my family, property, or AC system at risk? If the answer is yes, call for help right away. 

5 Signs That Your AC Needs Immediate Repair

Here are some warning signs that should have you reaching for the phone:

1. Complete System Shutdown

An AC that refuses to switch on during a heatwave is a real emergency. Indoor temperatures can climb without cooling, putting vulnerable family members at risk. First, check the thermostat and circuit breaker. If these are unresponsive, call a professional for swift repair. 

2. Strange or Burning Odors

A sharp burning smell often signals wiring issues or overheating components — both are potential fire hazards. Musty odors may mean mold inside the ducts or unit, affecting air quality and health. 

3. Unusual Sounds

Listen for these indicators of severe AC issues:

  • Banging: This sound is a sign of compressor problems. Since compressors distribute refrigerant, it's important to address issues swiftly.
  • Screeching: A faulty fan motor can cause a shrieking noise. 
  • Humming: Electrical issues are a common cause of humming. The culprit may be a fan motor or a capacitor problem. 
  • Buzzing: Loud buzzing can mean anything from loose parts to a compressor malfunction.

Rather than ignoring these noises, call a qualified HVAC technician. Continuing to run the unit can escalate into a breakdown. 

4. Warm Air Only

A refrigerant leak or a failed compressor can cause your AC to blow hot instead of cold. In high temperatures, loss of cooling is an urgent situation. Swift professional repair restores safety and stops further damage.

5. Leaking Refrigerant

Signs of refrigerant leaks include reduced cooling, coil ice buildup, or hissing noises. If you suspect a leak, turn off your AC and call for assistance. Leaking refrigerant can harm your health, the environment, and system efficiency. 

Each of these problems worsens the longer you wait. Quick repairs save you money, extend your AC unit's life, and protect your loved ones. 

Get Help Now From Our Emergency Team

When your AC fails, every moment matters. One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning® offers quick, efficient emergency AC repair. Our licensed technicians respond, pinpoint the problem, and restore your comfort fast. Our on-time guarantee means we arrive when you need us. Financing available at participating locations. 

Facing an AC emergency? Book an appointment online now or call us at 800-893-3523 for swift service.