What to Do If Your AC Stops Working in the Middle of a Heatwave

When your air conditioner suddenly stops working during a heatwave, panic can set in fast—especially if you're running a restaurant, hotel, or caring for residents in a senior living facility. High temperatures can affect comfort, safety, and even your business operations. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do immediately—and how to prevent future emergencies.

Outdoor AC unit scheduled for emergency servicing.

1. Stay Calm and Check the Basics

Before calling for help, check your thermostat settings, circuit breaker, and air filter. A tripped breaker or clogged filter is often the culprit. Make sure your system is set to “cool” and the temperature is lower than the room temp.

2. Keep Your Space Cool While You Wait

If you’ve called for an emergency AC repair, take steps to keep your space cool. Close blinds or curtains, use fans, and avoid using heat-generating appliances. For restaurants and diners, consider reducing indoor dining hours or offering patio service if possible.

3. Call a Certified HVAC Technician

Don’t wait—call a trusted local professional like Doctor Fridge HVAC Solutions. We offer same-day service for both commercial and residential clients across Florida. Whether it’s a refrigerant leak, a broken fan, or a worn-out compressor, we’ll find the issue and get you back to cool fast.

4. Schedule Preventative Maintenance

Heatwaves often expose underlying issues in older or neglected AC systems. Scheduling routine air conditioning maintenance is the best way to avoid breakdowns when temperatures peak. Clean coils, checked refrigerant levels, and tested components mean fewer surprises—and lower energy bills.

5. Consider Upgrading Your System

If your system is over 10–15 years old and keeps failing, it may be time to invest in an energy-efficient AC replacement. We offer free consultations to help you choose the right unit for your space—whether you run a café or manage a multi-unit senior care facility.