Emergency AC Breakdown on a 110°F Day: What to Do Before Help Arrives

Las Vegas summers are no joke. With temperatures regularly climbing past 110°F, a sudden air conditioner breakdown can feel like an emergency—because it is. When your AC fails during extreme heat, indoor temperatures can rise quickly, posing health risks, especially to young children, seniors, and pets.

While calling a trusted HVAC technician is your first step, what you do in the time before help arrives can make a big difference in maintaining safety and comfort. In this blog, we’ll guide you through smart, safe, and effective steps to take during an emergency AC breakdown on a blazing Vegas day.

Step 1: Call for Emergency AC Repair Immediately

Don’t wait—call an HVAC professional as soon as you realize your AC has stopped working. The longer you delay, the more uncomfortable and unsafe your home becomes, and the longer the repair queue might be during a heatwave.

For trusted, fast service in Las Vegas, reach out to Elite Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning—we offer emergency AC services when you need them most.

Step 2: Turn Off the AC Unit

If your system is making strange noises, leaking, or blowing warm air, it’s best to turn it off completely to avoid further damage. Running a malfunctioning system can burn out the compressor or worsen existing issues—leading to more costly repairs.

Step 3: Close Curtains, Blinds, and Shades

Block out the intense desert sun by drawing all blinds and curtains. Sunlight can quickly heat your home like an oven. By minimizing solar heat gain, you help maintain a bearable indoor temperature while you wait for help.

Step 4: Circulate Air with Fans

Use ceiling fans, box fans, or oscillating fans to keep air moving. This doesn’t lower the room’s temperature but makes you feel cooler through increased evaporation of sweat. Set ceiling fans to run counterclockwise for the best cooling effect.

Pro Tip: Place a bowl of ice or a frozen water bottle in front of a box fan for a DIY air-chiller effect.

Step 5: Hydrate Constantly

Extreme heat increases the risk of dehydration and heatstroke. Drink plenty of water—even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can contribute to dehydration. Encourage everyone in the home to hydrate frequently.

Step 6: Use Cool Towels or Cold Packs

Apply a cool, damp towel or ice pack to your neck, wrists, or forehead to bring down body temperature. You can also soak a T-shirt or small towel in cold water and wear it around your neck for relief.

Step 7: Avoid Using Heat-Producing Appliances

Avoid using stoves, ovens, dryers, or dishwashers until your AC is back up and running. These appliances release heat that can quickly make your space hotter. If possible, opt for cold meals or use a microwave for minimal heat output.

Step 8: Keep Interior Doors Open

Keep bedroom and bathroom doors open to promote better air circulation throughout the home. This will help prevent hot pockets of air from building up and maintain a more consistent indoor temperature.

Step 9: Relocate If Necessary

If the indoor temperature climbs above 85–90°F and you’re unable to manage the heat effectively—especially with vulnerable family members present—consider relocating temporarily to a cooler public space, such as:

• A friend or family member’s home
• A shopping mall
• A library or community center
• A movie theater

Your health and safety come first.

Step 10: Prevent Future Emergencies with Regular Maintenance

While emergency breakdowns can’t always be avoided, many are caused by preventable issues like dirty filters, low refrigerant, or worn parts. Scheduling annual maintenance can help identify small problems before they become big emergencies.

Final Thoughts

An AC failure on a 110°F day in Las Vegas can be more than just uncomfortable—it can be dangerous. Acting quickly and following these tips will help protect your family and minimize discomfort while waiting for professional repairs.

When you need help fast, trust Elite Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning. Our experienced technicians are on-call for emergency AC breakdowns and are trained to restore your cooling system quickly and safely—no matter how hot it gets outside.

Call Elite Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning today for fast emergency AC repair service in Las Vegas, and keep cool under pressure when the heat is on!