⚠️ Sparking AC — Immediate Steps
- Set thermostat to OFF
- Flip the AC circuit breaker to OFF at your electrical panel
- If sparking or smoke continues, call 911 — potential wiring fire
- Do not attempt to open the unit or investigate the source yourself
- Call ProAir Georgetown at (512) 798-8094 for same-day electrical diagnosis
Frequently Asked Questions
Common causes: a failed contactor with arcing contacts, a compressor with shorted windings arcing to ground, a capacitor in the process of failing with internal arcing, loose or deteriorated wiring at the electrical disconnect or contactor terminals. All require immediate diagnosis — arcing that reaches combustible materials causes fires.
Turn the system off at the thermostat immediately. Then flip the AC circuit breaker to OFF at your electrical panel. If sparking continues after the breaker is off, call 911 — there may be a wiring fault between the panel and the unit. Do not attempt to open the unit yourself.
Contactor replacement (most common cause): $125–$200. Capacitor replacement: $85–$150. Compressor replacement (if windings shorted): $1,200–$2,500. Wiring repairs: $150–$400. We provide a written estimate after safe diagnosis before any work proceeds.