Recognizing an HVAC Emergency
Not every problem is an emergency. True emergencies involve:
- Safety hazards (gas leaks, electrical problems, CO risk)
- Extreme weather conditions (no heat in freezing temps, no AC in heat waves)
- Water damage in progress
- Complete system failure affecting vulnerable occupants
Immediate Safety Steps
If You Smell Gas
- Don't turn on any electrical switches (can cause spark)
- Don't use phones inside (can cause spark)
- Open windows and doors
- Leave the house immediately
- Call PG&E from outside: 1-800-743-5000
- Call 911 if smell is strong
If Carbon Monoxide Alarm Sounds
- Leave immediately - don't investigate
- Call 911 from outside
- Don't re-enter until cleared by fire department
- Seek medical attention if anyone feels ill
If You See Smoke or Flames
- Turn off system at breaker or disconnect (if safe to do)
- Leave the house
- Call 911
- Don't re-enter
Non-Safety Emergencies
No Heat in Cold Weather
Immediate steps:
- Check thermostat batteries and settings
- Check circuit breaker
- Make sure gas valve is on (if gas furnace)
- Check air filter (severely clogged can shut down system)
Stay warm while waiting:
- Use space heaters safely (keep away from flammables)
- Layer clothing and blankets
- Gather family in one room
- Close blinds at night for insulation
- If pipes at risk, let faucets drip
No AC in Extreme Heat
Immediate steps:
- Check thermostat batteries and settings
- Check circuit breaker (both indoor and outdoor)
- Check air filter
- Make sure outdoor unit isn't blocked
Stay cool while waiting:
- Close blinds on sunny windows
- Use fans strategically
- Stay hydrated
- Visit air-conditioned public spaces (library, mall)
- Cool vulnerable occupants first
Water Leaking Inside
Immediate steps:
- Turn off system at thermostat
- Place towels and containers to catch water
- Check if condensate drain is clogged
- Take photos for documentation
Prevent damage:
- Move furniture and electronics
- Check for electrical hazards
- Monitor for ceiling damage
What NOT to Do
Don't Attempt Repairs You're Not Qualified For
- Don't open electrical panels
- Don't handle refrigerant lines
- Don't attempt gas line work
- Don't bypass safety devices
Don't Ignore Warning Signs
- Strange smells
- Unusual sounds
- Visible damage
- Error codes on thermostat
Don't Wait If Safety Is Involved
- Any gas odor
- CO alarm
- Burning smell
- Visible electrical problems
Preparing for Emergencies
Know Your Systems
- Location of main gas shutoff
- Location of electrical panel
- Location of HVAC disconnect
- Location of water shutoff
Keep Emergency Numbers Handy
- HVAC contractor (us!): [phone number]
- PG&E emergency: 1-800-743-5000
- Fire department: 911
Have Backup Plans
- Space heaters for heat emergencies
- Window AC or portable AC for cooling emergencies
- Know where to go if home is unsafe
When to Call for Emergency Service
Call for emergency/after-hours service when:
- Safety is at risk (gas, CO, electrical)
- Extreme weather affects vulnerable occupants
- Active water damage occurring
- Complete failure during unusual circumstances
What to Expect from Emergency Service
Emergency Service Typically Costs More
- After-hours rates are higher
- But waiting can cost more in damage or risk
- Always ask about charges before authorizing
What We Need to Know
When you call, have ready:
- Nature of the problem
- Equipment brand and model (if known)
- What you've already checked
- Any error codes displayed
- Your address and contact info
What to Expect
- Phone diagnosis may identify simple fixes
- Dispatch time varies by availability
- Technician will diagnose before quoting repairs
- You decide whether to proceed
Preventing Emergencies
Most emergencies are preventable:
- Annual maintenance catches problems early
- Filter replacement prevents system strain
- Attention to warning signs enables scheduled repairs
- Carbon monoxide detectors provide early warning
- Proper operation reduces wear and failures
Contact Us
For true emergencies, we offer 24/7 service:
- Call: [phone number]
- Explain your situation
- We'll help determine urgency
- Emergency dispatch when warranted
For non-emergencies, schedule regular service to prevent future emergencies.
Topics
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