What to do when your air conditioner (AC) goes out.

While the AC malfunctioning under certain conditions can be considered a maintenance emergency, sometimes fixing the issue may take time. In those circumstances, it's important to be prepared. Here are some helpful steps to follow if you are affected by this issue:

• Submit a work order.

  1. Notify us of this situation by creating a work order. 
     1. You can also contact our 24/7 emergency service line (314-325-8328)

• Have healthy expectations.

  1. Maintenance should arrive soon to help you prevent further damage, but there may be circumstances that affect their ability to resolve the issue right away, such as:
     1. Labor shortages
        1. Since 2020, the heating and cooling industry has experienced a shortage of qualified laborers. This means companies are functioning on a deficit, and work takes longer to complete.
     2. Material & supply chain shortages
        1. Since 2020, the global production industry has experienced a shortage of available supplies and delays in shipping and delivery. This means it can take longer for companies to receive everyday replacement parts and materials.
     3. Area outages
        1. As the temperature fluctuates, these issues can affect many properties at once. When hundreds or more properties are affected by similar issues, it means it will take qualified laborers more time to address each issue.
     4. Cold temperatures
        1. Air conditioners cannot be run in certain temperatures, as they will damage the unit further. Therefore tenants are advised not to run the AC when the indoor temperature is 65 degrees or lower or if the outdoor temperature is 70 degrees or lower. In these circumstances, it will also be problematic for a technician to repair the unit, as they would need the option to run the unit to make repairs.

• Have a plan in place

  1. It's best to be prepared for the issue to take time so you are not impacted more negatively than needed.
     1. Purchase temporary cooling appliances (fans, window units, dehumidifiers, etc.).
     2. Keep the area well-insulated by shutting doors and windows during the day and opening them at night.
     3. Keep curtains closed in the daytime.
     4. Open windows at night to allow for airflow.
     5. Close the fireplace flue.
     6. Replace heavy bedding with sheets or cotton bedding for more breathability.
     7. Put a bowl of ice cubes in front of the fans to circulate cooler air.
     8. Avoid lowing the thermostat too low to prevent your electric bill from rising.
     9. Run the kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans to pull hot air out of the room.
     10. Rotate your ceiling fans to avoid drawing cool air upwards.
     11. Drink plenty of water.
     12. Take cold showers to cool down yourself and your rooms.
     13. Limit the use of your dryer and stove whenever possible or use them at night.

• Coordinate a temporary place to stay when needed.

  1. You can always coordinate a temporary place to stay if the situation is uncomfortable or unsafe.
     1. Try contacting friends and family or finding a hotel room or Airbnb until you know it is safe to re-enter the residence.
     2. Be advised that the management company cannot guarantee recompensation for any expenses the tenant takes on voluntarily, especially when management had not made a prior agreement to compensate the tenant before the tenant made a purchase.

Our team will keep you updated on the matter as we have more information and attempt to remedy the situation as soon as possible.