Things can get stuffy fast when your air conditioner won't turn on in North America. Thankfully, Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning is here to help you remain cool, even when your AC isn't working properly. Here are eight typical reasons why your air conditioner won't turn on and how to fix them.
1) Check the Thermostat
The simplest explanation for your AC not turning on is a thermostat issue. Make sure your thermostat is on, set to "cool," and that the temperature is set to a few degrees lower than the normal ambient temperature of your home. You will also sometimes need to replace the batteries. If that doesn't take care of the issue, the temperature sensor in the thermostat might be inaccurate. A thermostat that can't read the desired temperature could stop your air conditioner from turning on. Once you've learned that the thermostat is malfunctioning, it's time to replace it. If you can't decide on a thermostat that's right for your residence, ask an Expert to help determine the best choice.
2) Check the Air Filter
Your air filter should be cleaned or replaced every 30-60 days at minimum. You should change them more frequently depending on the number of pets and people living in your home, plus the local air pollution levels surrounding your residence. A dirty air filter can restrict airflow, causing your air conditioner to freeze and not turn on.
If your air filter appears dirty or you can't remember the last time you changed it, it's time to get a new one. If your AC was frozen, wait for it to thaw after changing the filter before turning it back on.
3) Check the Circuit Breaker
Open the electrical panel inside your home and check to see if the circuit breaker connected to your air conditioner is tripped. You can identify if the breaker is tripped if the switch has shifted to the "OFF" position. To resolve this issue, simply flip the breaker so that it's in the "ON" position.
If your AC continues to trip the breaker after correcting this issue, you could have a serious problem and should contact the Experts at Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning to stop it from damaging your home or air conditioner.
4) Check the Indoor Shutoff Switch
Often mistaken for a light switch, if your AC won't turn on, the indoor shutoff switch could have been flipped accidentally. These switches are often placed near your furnace, in a closet, crawl space or attic. Once you reach the shutoff switch, make sure it's in the "OFF" position. If so, simply turn it back on. It's always a smart idea to label this switch to prevent anyone from mistakenly turning it off.
5) Check the Outdoor Shutoff Switch
If you or someone else has recently serviced your air conditioner, they might have turned off the external shutoff switch as a safety precaution. First, find the external shutoff switch, which should be near your AC unit. If the switch is in the "OFF" position, just flip it to allow your air conditioner to turn on.
6) Find the AC's Reset Button
When your air conditioner won't turn on, it might simply need to be reset. Not all ACs have a reset button, so first verify if your unit does. If you can find the reset button, press it before going to turn your AC on again. If you can't find the reset button, manually reset your air conditioner by switching your thermostat off for five to 10 minutes before turning it back on again.
7) Inspect the AC for Ice Buildup
Check the air conditioner for any ice buildup either on or inside the unit. If you discover ice on your machine, you need to wait for it to melt before trying to start the unit or you risk damaging the AC. Though there are various reasons you may see ice on your air conditioner, it's always preferable to call Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning for a consultation to stop further damage from occurring.
8) Ensure the Condensate Drain Isn't Clogged
If you don't see ice on the air conditioner, the condensate drain might be backed up. When clogged, your AC won't turn on as a safety precaution. To resolve the issue, unclog the drain line using suction from a wet/dry vac. Verify that you've fixed the blockage by pouring a small amount of clear water and watching it flow out. For particularly tough clogs, it might be best to call the Experts.
AC Still Won't Turn On? Call Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning!
There's no reason to suffer without air conditioning—call your local HVAC Experts in North America to help determine why your AC won't turn on. Our fully trained technicians can diagnose why your unit isn't working, and complete a repair or install a replacement. And with Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning, your satisfaction is guaranteed!*
Contact us at 866-397-3787 to schedule your air conditioning appointment in North America today!