It’s the hottest day of the year, and your air conditioner just quit on you. Sound familiar?
Why Air Conditioners Break Down When You Need Them Most
Here in the San Fernando Valley, Conejo Valley, and Westside areas, we know how brutal summer can be. When temperatures soar into the triple digits, your AC system works overtime trying to keep your home comfortable. That’s exactly when most breakdowns happen – when your system is pushed to its limits.
AC technicians across Southern California are swamped during heat waves, working 10-12 hour days in scorching attics and crawl spaces to get families back to comfort. The demand is so high that emergency calls are often prioritized for elderly residents, families with medical conditions, and homes with only one AC unit.
The Most Common Summer AC Problems
Capacitor Failure: This is the number one culprit behind summer breakdowns. The capacitor helps your AC motor start and run efficiently. When it fails, your system won’t turn on at all. Most capacitor failures happen because the system hasn’t had regular maintenance and gets overworked during extreme heat.
Low Refrigerant: Another frequent summer problem. Your AC needs the right amount of refrigerant to cool effectively. Low levels mean your system works harder but cools less, leading to higher bills and potential damage.
Dirty Filters and Coils: When your system is clogged with dust and debris, it can’t breathe properly. This makes it work harder and break down faster.
Don’t Panic If Your Thermostat Reads Higher Than You Set It
Here’s something that surprises many homeowners: during peak heat hours (usually 3:30-6:30 PM), it’s normal for your thermostat to read 2-3 degrees higher than your setting.
Why? Most AC systems in our area are designed to handle outdoor temperatures up to 92 degrees. When heat indexes hit 100+ degrees, even a well-functioning system struggles to keep up during the hottest part of the day. Your temperature should drop back to your set point by 7-8 PM as the sun goes down.
If your system is consistently running 5+ degrees above your setting, or if it never catches up in the evening, then you likely have a problem that needs professional attention.
The Power of Preventive Maintenance
The best defense against summer breakdowns is regular maintenance. Most emergency calls come from homes that haven’t had their systems serviced in over a year.
A professional AC tune-up includes:
- Checking and replacing filters
- Testing refrigerant levels
- Inspecting electrical connections
- Cleaning coils and components
- Testing the capacitor and other key parts
Even if you haven’t had maintenance in a while, it’s not too late. Getting your system checked now can prevent costly breakdowns during the hottest months ahead.
When You Need Emergency AC Repair
Some problems require immediate professional help. Call for AC repair if you notice:
- Your system won’t turn on at all
- It’s blowing warm air instead of cool
- You hear unusual noises like grinding or squealing
- You smell burning or electrical odors
- Ice is forming on your outdoor unit
- Your electric bills have suddenly spiked
Signs It’s Time for a New AC System
Sometimes repair isn’t the best option. Consider replacing your air conditioner if:
- Your system is over 10-15 years old
- Repair costs are more than half the price of a new unit
- Your energy bills keep climbing
- You’re constantly calling for repairs
- Your system can’t keep up even after repairs
Beat the Heat Wave Rush
The best time to address AC problems is before the heat hits. Spring maintenance and early summer tune-ups help you avoid the crush of emergency calls during peak season. Your technician can spot potential problems before they leave you sweating.
Remember, AC technicians are working long hours in extreme heat to keep families comfortable. A little patience during heat waves goes a long way, and prioritizing emergency calls helps ensure those who need help most get it first.
Stay Cool This Summer
Don’t let AC problems ruin your summer plans. Regular maintenance, smart usage, and knowing when to call for help can keep your home comfortable all season long. When problems do arise, working with experienced professionals ensures you get quality repairs that last.
MightyServ understands the unique challenges of cooling homes in the San Fernando Valley, Conejo Valley, and Westside areas. We know how to handle everything from routine maintenance to emergency repairs, helping keep your family comfortable when it matters most.
Need AC service? Call us at (818) 348-4768 or schedule service online.
