What to Do if Your Air Conditioner Stops Working
4 min read.
When the summer heat kicks in, working air conditioning is more than just a comfort; it’s a necessity. So, what do you do when you’re A/C suddenly stops working in your rental? Here are some practical, rental-friendly steps you can take to stay cool and resolve the issues quickly and responsibly.
Double-Check the Basics
Begin with a quick troubleshooting check; these small fixes can sometimes resolve the issue without requiring landlord involvement.
Is the unit plugged in or powered on? For window or portable units, make sure the cord is securely connected.
Check the thermostat (if you have central air) and ensure it’s set to “cool” and at the correct temperature.
Look for tripped breakers. A power surge or overload may have flipped the circuit. Reset it if needed and see if the A/C powers back up.
Clean or Replace the Filter
A clogged air filter can make an A/C unit run poorly or stop working altogether. If your unit has a reusable filter, remove it and rinse it with warm water. Then, let it dry completely before reinserting. If it’s disposable, check your lease or ask your landlord if it’s your responsibility to replace it. A clean filter can improve air quality and help the unit function more efficiently.
Check for Blocked Vents or Airflow Issues
Sometimes the unit is technically working, but the airflow is blocked. For central air, make sure nothing is covering your air vents. For portable or window units, check that nothing is blocking the intake or exhaust, and that the unit is properly sealed in the window.
Contact Your Landlord or Property Manager
The sooner you report the issue, the sooner it can be addressed. In most cases, A/C maintenance or replacement is the landlord’s responsibility, especially if the unit was included in your lease. If the basic troubleshooting doesn’t solve the issues, it’s time to notify your landlord. Be sure to include details like:
When the unit stopped working
What type of A/C is it (central, window, portable)
Any steps you’ve already taken
How are the issues affecting your comfort or safety
Stay Cool in the Meantime
If your apartment becomes dangerously hot and you can’t safely remain inside, contact your landlord again and seek out a temporary cool space, such as a library, shopping centre, or a friend’s place. While you wait for repairs:
Use fans to circulate the air and push heat out of windows in the evening
Close curtains or blinds during the day to block out direct sunlight
Avoid using the oven or stove to keep indoor temperatures down
Drink plenty of water and wear light, breathable clothing.
A broken A/C in the middle of summer is stressful, but knowing what to check and when to call your landlord can help you resolve the issue quickly and stay safe. With a bit of preparation and good communication, you can keep yourself cool even when the air conditioner isn’t.
References
Jacobs, A. (2024, November 20). Why is my air conditioner not working? 10 possible reasons. Jacobs Heating & Air Conditioning. https://jacobsheating.com/blog/why-is-my-ac-not-working/
deHaan, A. (2024, September 12). 10 troubleshooting tips for common AC problems. Enercare. https://www.enercare.ca/blog/home-cooling/easy-troubleshooting-common-ac-problems
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