Turn off the system, check your thermostat and circuit breaker, and call a licensed HVAC technician right away. If temperatures outside are dangerous and your home is heating up fast, treat it as a safety emergency, not just a comfort issue. Do not attempt to repair the unit yourself. At Comfort Plus, LC Heating and Cooling, we are available 24/7 for exactly these situations.
What Counts as an AC Emergency?
You are likely dealing with an emergency when your AC:
- Stops working entirely when outdoor temperatures exceed 90°F
- Produces a burning or chemical smell
- Leaks water inside the house
- Shows visible ice on the outdoor unit or refrigerant lines in summer
- Trips the circuit breaker repeatedly
Michigan summers combine heat with high humidity, and that combination turns a failed AC into a genuine health risk fast. A peer-reviewed study of Detroit residents published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health found that people without air conditioning had 4.66 times the odds of experiencing heat-related illness compared to those with central AC.
What Should You Do First?
Follow these steps in order before calling for air conditioning service.
Step 1: Check Your Thermostat
Ensure the thermostat is set to “Cool” and the temperature is set lower than the current indoor reading. If it looks correct, try replacing the batteries.
Step 2: Check the Circuit Breaker
The first things you should check are your circuit breaker and your thermostat, which are often the culprits when an AC fails to activate. Go to your electrical panel and look for any tripped breakers labeled for the AC or air handler. Reset it once; if it trips again, stop and call a technician.
Step 3: Turn Off the System If You Notice Warning Signs
If you smell burning, see water pooling near the unit, or notice ice on the lines, turn the system off at the thermostat and disconnect power at the breaker. Running a damaged system can cause further harm.
Step 4: Call a Licensed HVAC Technician
Do not attempt to open the unit or recharge refrigerant yourself. These tasks require licensed professionals and specialized equipment. Contact a local service provider for a fast response, whether you need a repair or a full air conditioning installation. A licensed technician will assess what your home actually needs.
How Do You Keep Your Home Cool While You Wait?
| Strategy | What to Do |
| Block sunlight | Close blinds and curtains on sun-facing windows |
| Improve airflow | Open windows on opposite sides of the home to create cross-ventilation |
| Use fans correctly | Point fans toward windows to push hot air out |
| Stay hydrated | Drink cold water regularly, especially children and older adults |
| Lower heat sources | Turn off lights, ovens, and electronics you are not using |
| Go low | Heat rises — move to the lowest floor of your home |
If indoor temperatures reach dangerous levels and you have vulnerable family members at home, consider visiting a public cooling center, library, or nearby business with air conditioning until repairs are complete.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is a broken AC considered a medical emergency?
It can be, especially for young children, elderly adults, and anyone with a chronic health condition. If indoor temps are climbing and vulnerable people are home, get to a cooler location immediately and call for emergency air conditioning service.
2. Can I run my AC if it is freezing up or leaking water?
No. Shut the system off at the thermostat and the breaker. Running it risks damaging the compressor, one of the most costly components to replace. A technician must identify the cause before the system is restarted.
3. How long does emergency AC repair usually take?
Most repairs are completed in a single visit when the technician has the right parts on hand. Response time varies by provider, so choosing a company like Comfort Plus Heating & Cooling, that offers 24/7 availability makes a significant difference in summer.
Get Fast Help When You Need It Most
Comfort Plus Heating & Cooling is available 24/7 for air conditioning service across Troy, Rochester Hills, Royal Oak, Birmingham, and greater Oakland County. From same-day repairs to full AC installation, our licensed technicians respond quickly and get it done right. Call us at (248) 280-2800 or email info@comfortpluslc.com to request a free estimate online.
