There’s no worse time for your air conditioner to give out than during a blazing summer day here in Southern New England. When the heat index climbs into the 90s—or worse—your home should feel like a sanctuary, not a sauna. At Lawrence Air Systems, we get how uncomfortable and even stressful it can be when your AC suddenly stops working. And when your family’s comfort is at stake, every minute counts.
Whether you’re in Bristol, Westport, East Providence or Jamestown, this guide will help you take the right steps, right away—and show you how our team can get your cool air flowing again, fast.
Step One: Don’t Panic—Check the Simple Stuff First
Sometimes, the fix is easier than you think. Before assuming the worst, here are a few quick things you can check on your own:
Is the Thermostat Set Correctly?
- Make sure it’s on “cool” mode and that the temperature is set lower than the current room temp.
- If the screen is blank, the batteries may just need replacing. If the “Low Battery” indicator is showing, obviously they need to be changed – however, we’ve found instances where fresh batteries fix the problem even though that indicator isn’t on!
- If you have a smart or programmable thermostat, try a factory reset.
Power Issues?
- Head to your circuit breaker box and look for any tripped breakers. Reset if needed.
- Sometimes the breaker doesn’t move all the way to off and is partially tripped.
- Make sure the outdoor unit hasn’t been accidentally switched off or unplugged.
Take a Look at Your Air Filter
- A dirty filter can choke your system and cause it to shut down.
- If it looks dusty or gray, swap it out. Ideally, filters should be changed every 30 to 60 days, especially during the summer months.
Step Two: Try a Few DIY Fixes Before Making the Call
Still no luck? Here are a few more things you can do before picking up the phone:
Check for Ice
- Look at the indoor unit and refrigerant lines. If you see frost or ice buildup, your system may be low on refrigerant or struggling with poor airflow.
- Turn the system off and let it defrost for a few hours.
Listen for Odd Noises
- Any buzzing, clicking, or clunking sounds are usually a red flag.
- If you hear anything strange, shut the unit down to prevent further damage.
Inspect the Outdoor Unit
- Make sure it’s clear of leaves, branches, or debris. A blocked condenser can easily overheat.
- Gently hose off the unit if it looks dirty, and make sure the fan blades spin freely.
Step Three: When It’s Time to Call in the Pros
If your AC is still out after trying the steps above, it’s time to bring in a technician. Call us if you notice any of these signs:
- The system doesn’t turn on at all
- It’s blowing warm or room-temperature air
- It keeps turning off and on (short cycling)
- You see water leaks or condensation
- There are strange smells—burning, musty, or moldy
- You hear loud or alarming noises like squealing or hissing
- Coils are frozen, or the refrigerant seems to be leaking
At Lawrence Air Systems, we’ve seen it all—and fixed it all. Our team is ready to get your AC back up and running with fast, friendly service.
While You Wait: Tips to Keep Cool
Waiting for a repair technician during a heatwave isn’t fun, but there are a few things you can do to stay comfortable:
Block the Sun
- Close windows, blinds, and curtains—especially during peak daylight hours.
- Blackout curtains can work wonders in keeping rooms cooler.
Use Fans Creatively
- Set ceiling fans to spin counterclockwise to push air downward.
- Place box fans near windows at night to pull in cooler air.
- Try putting a bowl of ice in front of a fan for a DIY chill breeze.
Avoid Generating Extra Heat
- Skip the oven and stove. Cold meals like salads and sandwiches are your best bet.
- Limit electronics and light use in enclosed rooms.
Stay Hydrated and Rested
- Drink plenty of water. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can dehydrate you.
- Take cool showers or use a damp cloth on your neck and wrists.
- Hang out in the basement or the lowest level of your home—it’s naturally cooler down there.
The Best Fix? Preventing It from Happening Again
A mid-summer AC failure is awful—but it’s often avoidable. Routine maintenance is your best defense.
Schedule Regular Total System Cleanings
Our spring maintenance service includes:
- Cleaning coils
- Testing electrical connections
- Checking refrigerant levels
- Swapping out filters
- System performance testing
We recommend a full check-up every season.
Consider Replacing an Aging System
If your AC is 12 to 15 years old, repairs may be throwing good money after bad. New systems are:
- Quieter
- More energy-efficient
- Better at maintaining even cooling
- Often eligible for Mass Save® rebates and incentives
- More reliable
We can help you explore ductless mini-split systems, energy-saving central air, and financing solutions to ease the upgrade process.
Why Lawrence Air Systems Is a Local Favorite
We’re not just HVAC pros—we’re your neighbors. Since 1973, we’ve served families across Southeastern Massachusetts, Bristol County, RI and Newport County, RI. Stay comfortable, no matter the season.
Here’s what makes us different:
- 50+ Years in Business
- Full-Service HVAC for both residential and commercial needs
- After Hours Emergency Service for those enrolled in our maintenance program -so you’re never left sweating
- Certified Technicians trained on all of the top brands like Trane, Mitsubishi, Carrier, LG, Lennox, Fujitsu, etc.
- Energy Experts helping you take advantage of every rebate and incentive available
Don’t Wait for the Next Heatwave
An AC breakdown in the middle of a heatwave can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to suffer through it. Lawrence Air Systems is just a call away—ready to help you troubleshoot, repair, or even upgrade your cooling system with expert care and unmatched local service.
Need AC help right now?
Call us at (401) 213-1516 or visit www.lawrenceairsystems.com to schedule your appointment.
Stay cool, stay safe—and let us handle the rest.