702-564-6697When a Las Vegas heatwave rolls in and temperatures soar into the triple digits, the last thing you want is an air conditioner that’s not doing its job. If your AC isn’t keeping your home as cool as usual, it’s important to know what might be wrong—and what you can do about it.
Sometimes the fix is simple, but other times it’s a job for the pros. Can you handle it yourself, or do you need AC repair in Henderson, NV? Here’s a guide to help you troubleshoot common AC problems during extreme heat.
Start With the Basics: Simple Fixes You Can Handle
- Dirty Air Filters: One of the most common reasons your AC might not be cooling properly is a clogged air filter. When filters are full of dust and debris, airflow is restricted, and your system has to work harder to circulate cool air. In extreme heat, that strain can make a noticeable difference. Check your filter—if it’s dirty, replace it. During a Vegas summer, this should be done monthly.
- Blocked or Dirty Outdoor Unit: The condenser unit outside your home needs room to breathe. If it’s coated in dust or surrounded by yard debris, it can’t release heat efficiently. Gently rinse the coils with a hose (never use a pressure washer), and make sure there are at least two feet of clear space around the unit.
- Thermostat Settings: It sounds simple, but many homeowners accidentally misprogram their thermostat. Double-check that it’s set to “cool” and that the temperature is correctly adjusted. If you have a programmable or smart thermostat, make sure you haven’t scheduled higher temperatures during peak cooling times.
- Tripped Circuit Breaker: If your AC is running but not blowing cold air—or isn’t running at all—it’s worth checking your circuit breaker panel. A tripped breaker can shut down part of your HVAC system. Reset the breaker and see if the system kicks back on.
When It’s Time to Call the Pros
- Refrigerant Leaks: Low refrigerant levels due to leaks can drastically reduce your AC’s cooling capacity. This isn’t something you can fix yourself—a licensed technician must handle refrigerant. Signs of a refrigerant issue include hissing sounds, ice on the refrigerant line, or warm air from the vents.
- Malfunctioning Thermostat: If your thermostat isn’t accurately reading the room temperature, it could cause your system to cycle improperly. Our team can test the thermostat and replace it if needed.
- Electrical or Mechanical Failures: Fan motor issues, capacitor problems, or compressor failures can also prevent effective cooling. These issues require diagnosis and repair from an experienced HVAC technician.
Know Your AC’s Limits in Extreme Heat
It’s important to understand that even a perfectly functioning air conditioner has limits. Most systems are designed to cool your home about 20° below the outdoor temperature. So when it’s 110°F in Las Vegas, your AC may struggle to bring your home much below 88–90°F. That’s not a system failure—it’s simply the reality of physics and system design.
To help your AC during a heatwave, close blinds during the day, avoid using heat-generating appliances, and run ceiling fans to circulate air.
If you’ve tried these basic fixes and your AC still isn’t cooling like it should, give us a call for AC repairs. We’re here to keep your Las Vegas home as cool and comfortable as possible, even when the desert heat is at its peak!
When your HVAC system or plumbing isn’t looking so hot, it’s time to get Johnny On the Spot.