Emergency HVAC Repairs: What to Check Before You Call a Pro

The other night, just after dinner, I got a call from a local homeowner — you could hear the frustration in his voice.

“Man, the AC just quit on us. It’s hotter inside than it is outside. What do I do?!”

If you’ve ever been there, you know it’s a miserable feeling.

But before you panic (or assume the worst), there are a few quick things you can check yourself — and sometimes, that simple check can save you from an expensive emergency service call.

At Southern Chill A/C and Heating, LLC, we want to help you stay cool and save your hard-earned money.

Here’s what you should do before calling in the pros:

First: Is It a True Emergency?

There are a lot of issues that feel like emergencies — but not all of them need a 24/7 repair call.

Checking a few basics could get you back up and running without the extra cost.

Here’s where to start:

1. Check Your Thermostat

This one’s simple but easy to overlook.

• Make sure it’s set to “Cool” (and not “Fan” or “Heat”).

• Double-check the temperature setting — make sure it’s actually lower than the room temperature.

• If you’re using a battery-powered thermostat, swap in new batteries just to rule that out.

Pro tip: A lot of “no-cooling” calls we get? It’s just a thermostat setting.

2. Take a Look at the Air Filter

When was the last time you changed your air filter?

A dirty, clogged filter restricts airflow and can even cause your system to shut down to protect itself.

If you pull the filter out and it looks like a dust bunny exploded on it — it’s time for a new one.

Quick fix: Replace it, and give your system a few minutes to see if it kicks back on properly.

3. Inspect for Ice Buildup

Sometimes the problem is hiding in plain sight.

Look at your indoor unit and your outside condenser — if you see ice anywhere, shut the system off immediately.

Running your AC while frozen can burn out the compressor (and nobody wants that repair bill).

Let it thaw, then call a pro to safely diagnose why it froze up in the first place.

4. Reset Your Breaker Box

Check your electrical panel.

• If the HVAC breaker is tripped (in the middle position), flip it OFF first, then back ON.

• If it immediately trips again after resetting, stop right there — you’re looking at an electrical issue that needs a pro.

Reminder: Reset once. If it trips again, do not keep trying. (That’s a fire risk.)

5. Listen for Unusual Noises

Noises matter.

If you hear grinding, banging, squealing, or anything that sounds like a metal-on-metal concert — turn the system off.

These sounds usually mean there’s a loose or broken part that needs attention.

Running it longer could turn a small fix into a major repair.

When You Should Skip DIY and Call Immediately

You should call Southern Chill A/C and Heating, LLC right away if you notice:

• No airflow coming from your vents

• Burning or electrical smells

• Water pooling around the unit

• Visible sparks or smoke

• Dangerous temperatures rising inside (especially if you have small kids or elderly family members)

Those aren’t “wait and see” issues — they need fast, professional repair.

The Bottom Line: A Few Quick Checks Could Save You Big

Before you panic and call for an emergency repair, taking five minutes to check your thermostat, filter, breaker, and unit can sometimes solve the problem without the extra cost.

But if you see warning signs, weird noises, or no airflow?

Don’t wait.

That’s when it’s time to call the team you can trust — Southern Chill A/C and Heating, LLC.

We’re ready to roll 24/7, because around here, we believe comfort isn’t optional — it’s essential.

Need help fast? We’ve got your back.

Schedule Your Emergency HVAC Service Now