Northern Virginia summers are no joke. When a heat wave rolls in, your air conditioning system becomes the difference between a safe, comfortable home and an unbearable (and unsafe) situation. But is your AC system ready to handle the stress of back-to-back 90+ degree days? Before you find yourself sweating through a breakdown, here’s how to make sure your cooling system is up to the challenge.

Start with a Full AC Performance Check

Think of a performance check like a wellness exam for your AC system. Over time, dust, wear and tear, and even small leaks can cause your unit to underperform or fail completely. During a professional performance inspection, a certified Falcon technician will assess critical components, including:

Refrigerant Levels: Low refrigerant means your system can’t cool your home effectively, and it could indicate a leak.
Thermostat Calibration: If your thermostat isn’t accurate, your system could be working harder than it needs to—or not working at all.
Electrical Connections & Controls: Loose or corroded connections can lead to shorts, system failure, or even fire hazards.
Evaporator & Condenser Coil Condition: Dirty coils reduce efficiency and strain the compressor.
Air Filter & Airflow Check: Restricted airflow can cause uneven cooling, higher energy bills, and frozen coils.

Catching these issues early helps prevent unexpected breakdowns during a heat wave, when emergency service calls surge and repair wait times grow.

Replace That Dirty Filter. Seriously!

Your air filter isn’t just for improving indoor air quality—it protects your entire cooling system. A clogged filter makes it harder for air to flow through your system, forcing it to work overtime and increasing the risk of overheating. During high heat, that extra stress can be a recipe for disaster. Change your filter every 1–3 months, especially if you have pets, allergies, or live in a high-pollen area of NOVA.

Don’t Ignore Strange Noises or Weak Cooling

If you notice loud banging, rattling, or screeching sounds—or if your system is blowing warm air or taking longer than usual to cool your home—schedule a diagnostic visit ASAP. Small problems can snowball fast during a heat wave. A weakening capacitor or failing fan motor might still work under mild temps but could completely give out when the temperature spikes. It’s much easier (and cheaper) to fix a minor issue before it becomes an emergency.

Know Your Emergency Options

Even the best-maintained AC systems can run into trouble, especially when they’re pushed to their limits. Falcon Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing offers emergency AC services throughout Northern Virginia, so you’re never left to deal with the heat alone. If your system stops working during a heat wave:

Turn off the system immediately to prevent further damage.
Call Falcon right away for emergency dispatch service.
Use fans, close blinds, and stay hydrated while waiting for help.
Avoid DIY fixes—these often make the problem worse or void your system’s warranty.

Prevent Future Panics with a Maintenance Plan

The best way to avoid emergency service altogether? Regular, professional maintenance. Falcon’s Elite Care Advanced Maintenance Plan includes seasonal tune-ups, priority service, and discounts on repairs—so your AC stays in peak condition all year long. It’s the easiest way to prevent breakdowns and reduce your energy bill, even during the hottest weeks of the year.

A Northern Virginia heat wave is not the time to find out your air conditioner is on its last leg. With a quick performance check, routine maintenance, and access to emergency support when you need it, Falcon can help make sure you’re ready for whatever the summer throws your way.

Don’t wait until the temperature hits 100, call Falcon today at [csad_hone] to schedule your AC check or emergency service.