Memphis A/C Experts Share Tips as Summer Heat Soars

As temperatures in Memphis flirt with the 100-degree mark, families are cranking up their air conditioning units to stay cool. However, this surge in usage is putting a strain on these systems, leading to a flurry of service calls for repair technicians. Oscar Pruitt, the owner of Opachs AC and Heating Services, is bracing himself for a hectic week as he and his team scramble to address homeowner concerns.

Pruitt has been running around attending to calls since the early hours of the morning, noting, “This is number six. I’ve been running since 5:30 this morning.” The heavy demands have resulted in technicians being stretched thin, leading Pruitt to ask for patience from customers. “We work them in as soon as we can,” he says, emphasizing the importance of addressing cooling issues promptly.

Given how rapidly some A/C units are aging, Pruitt encourages Memphis residents to not wait until their systems malfunction. “A lot of units are aging out real fast,” he points out. This should serve as a reminder for homeowners to schedule regular maintenance checks, ideally during spring when the demand for A/C repairs is generally lower. “The best time to make sure your system is good is around spring because once it’s hot, everyone is running behind.”

It’s not just the heat that families need to be wary of. Pruitt elaborates on the logistical challenges associated with repairs: “Certain parts take days or even weeks to come,” which can create uncomfortable living conditions. He highlights just how crucial it is for homeowners to take preventative measures to avoid long waits without cooling relief.

While waiting for a technician to arrive, Pruitt recommends a few immediate actions for those finding their A/C units struggling to keep up with the heat. “Let some of the windows up, put a fan in until we get there,” he suggests. However, if the unit is frozen up, it’s best to turn it off or switch it to fan mode. “That can help prevent further issues until we can take a look,” he adds.

In addition to managing their A/C settings, Pruitt shares essential tips for homeowners looking to ensure their cooling systems are functioning optimally. He stresses the importance of checking A/C filters and switching to a “MERV 11” air filter for better efficiency. “You want to make sure your air is flowing properly,” he explains, advising that people can remove and check these filters themselves to see if they need changing.

Before calling for help, Pruitt also advises homeowners to do a quick check of their A/C systems. “Check your batteries and your filter first,” he says. “Sometimes it’s the simplest things causing the issue.” If safe to do so, homeowners can spray down their A/C units with a hose to clear debris and improve airflow. It’s all about keeping things running smoothly until professional help is available.

On top of A/C repairs, Memphis is no stranger to the challenges that come with extreme weather. Local residents are reminded that staying indoors and keeping hydrated during these peak heat moments is crucial. They can also find relief at local community centers or public libraries that offer air-conditioned spaces for those without cool homes.

As the summer heat looms on, it’s important for Memphis residents to be proactive about their A/C systems. Whether it’s scheduling routine maintenance or keeping an eye on air filters, small actions can make a big difference in extending the life of these vital cooling appliances. Let’s keep our cool, Memphis! Remember, summer is still upon us, and the dog days are yet to come.

In summary, if you’re experiencing a cooling crisis in this heatwave, consider these tips from the local experts: perform basic checks, change filters, and maintain patience as repair technicians work through the busy season. Stay cool, stay safe, and remember that a little maintenance goes a long way in the sweltering months ahead.

Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER

The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.