Quick Answer
In an HVAC emergency, first check your thermostat and breakers—many "emergencies" have simple fixes. For AC failure in summer, use fans, close blinds, and stay hydrated. For heating failure in winter, use space heaters safely and layer up. True emergencies include gas leaks (leave immediately, call 911) and carbon monoxide alarms (evacuate first). Most other situations can wait for same-day service.
Your AC dies on the hottest day of summer. Your furnace quits on the coldest night. It feels like an emergency—but is it really? Here's what to do when your HVAC system fails, how to stay safe and comfortable, and how to determine if you truly need emergency service.
Step 1: Quick Checks Before You Call
Before paying for emergency service, try these simple fixes that solve many "emergencies":
Quick Diagnostic Checklist
- Check thermostat settings – Is it set to HEAT/COOL and at the right temperature?
- Check thermostat batteries – Dead batteries = no signal to system
- Check circuit breakers – Both indoor and outdoor units have separate breakers
- Check air filter – A completely clogged filter can shut down the system
- Check outdoor unit – Is it blocked by debris or ice?
- Wait 5 minutes – Systems have built-in delays after cycling
These simple checks resolve about 25% of "emergency" calls. It's worth 10 minutes before calling for service.
True Emergencies vs. Urgent Situations
True Emergencies (Call 911 or Leave Immediately)
- Gas smell – Leave the house immediately, don't use phones/lights inside, call 911 from outside
- Carbon monoxide detector alarm – Evacuate everyone, call 911, don't re-enter until cleared
- Visible fire or smoke – Evacuate and call 911
- Electrical arcing/sparks – Turn off power at breaker, don't touch equipment
Gas Leak Protocol
Urgent (Same-Day Service Appropriate)
- Complete AC failure when temps are 95°F+ with vulnerable household members
- Complete heat failure when temps are below freezing with vulnerable members
- Water actively leaking from HVAC system
- System making loud banging/grinding noises
Can Usually Wait Until Business Hours
- AC not cooling well (but still running)
- Heat failure when above freezing or you have supplemental heat
- Reduced airflow
- Unusual but not severe noises
- Thermostat issues
Staying Cool When AC Fails (Summer)
Charlotte summers are brutal without AC. Here's how to cope until repairs:
Summer Survival Tips
- Use box fans or ceiling fans – Moving air feels 4-6 degrees cooler
- Close blinds and curtains – Block solar heat gain
- Open windows at night – Let cooler night air in
- Use portable AC if available – Cools one room
- Stay hydrated – Drink plenty of water
- Take cool showers – Lower body temperature
- Go somewhere cool – Mall, library, friend's house during hottest hours
- Minimize heat sources – Don't use oven, limit lighting
Priority check: Are there vulnerable people (elderly, infants, those with health conditions)? If so, they should go somewhere with AC until repairs are made.
Staying Warm When Heat Fails (Winter)
Charlotte winters are generally mild, but temperatures can drop below freezing:
Winter Survival Tips
- Use space heaters safely – Keep away from flammable items, never leave unattended
- Layer clothing – Multiple thin layers work better than one thick layer
- Close off unused rooms – Concentrate heat where you are
- Use oven carefully – You can run it to heat the kitchen, but never leave it on overnight
- Block drafts – Towels under doors, plastic over windows
- Stay active – Physical activity generates body heat
- Use heated blankets – Safe overnight alternative to space heaters
Space Heater Safety
Protect pipes: If temperatures will drop below 25°F and your heat is out, let faucets drip slightly to prevent frozen pipes.
When to Call for Emergency Service
Emergency/after-hours service typically costs $100-$200 more than regular rates. It's worth it when:
- Vulnerable household members have no alternative
- Temperatures are extreme (95°F+ or below 25°F)
- Safety concerns exist (gas smell, CO alarm, water damage)
- You've exhausted simple troubleshooting
It can usually wait until business hours when:
- Temperatures are moderate
- You have supplemental heating/cooling options
- Everyone can safely go elsewhere if needed
- It's late evening and repair can wait until morning
How to Get Faster Service
- Call first thing in the morning – Earlier calls get earlier appointments
- Be flexible – Can you do any time today? That often gets you in faster
- Describe symptoms clearly – Helps dispatch the right technician with right parts
- Mention if you're a maintenance plan member – Often gets priority scheduling
- Ask about cancellation list – Sometimes earlier slots open up
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Written by
Kodiak HVAC Team
HVAC professional at Kodiak Heating & Cooling.