Eight Reasons Why Your AC Won’t Turn On-And What to Do

Things can get warm fast when your air conditioner won’t turn on in the U.S.. Thankfully, Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing is here to help you remain cool, even when your AC isn’t running properly. Here are eight potential reasons why your air conditioner won’t turn on and how to fix them.

1) Check the Thermostat

The easy explanation for your AC not turning on is a thermostat issue. Check to ensure 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 might also need to replace the batteries. If that doesn’t take care of the issue, the temperature sensor in the thermostat may be inaccurate. A thermostat that can’t read the set temperature could prevent your air conditioner from turning on. Once you’ve discovered 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, consult with an Expert to help determine the best choice.

2) Check the Air Filter

Your air filter should be exchanged 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 close to 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 replace it with 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 moved 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 fixing this issue, you may have a serious problem and should contact the Experts at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing 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 may have been flipped unintentionally. These switches are usually found near your furnace, in a closet, crawl space or attic. Once you reach the shutoff switch, confirm it’s in the “OFF” position. If so, you’ll need to turn it back on. It’s always a good idea to label this switch to prevent anyone from mistakenly shifting 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, identify the external shutoff switch, which should be near your AC unit. If the switch is in the “OFF” position, simply flip it to allow your air conditioner to turn on.

6) Locate the AC’s Reset Button

When your air conditioner won’t turn on, it may 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, push it before trying to turn your AC on again. If you can’t find the reset button, manually reset your air conditioner by shutting your thermostat off for five to 10 minutes before turning it back on again.

7) Inspect the AC for Ice Buildup

Inspect the air conditioner for any ice buildup either on or inside the unit. If you find ice on your machine, you need to wait for it to defrost before attempting to start the unit or you risk damaging the AC. Though there are various reasons you might see ice on your air conditioner, it’s always best to call Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for a consultation to stop further damage from occurring.

8) Ensure the Condensate Drain Isn’t Clogged

If you don’t find ice on the air conditioner, the condensate drain may be backed up. When clogged, your AC won’t turn on as a safety precaution. To resolve the issue, unclog the drain line with suction from a wet/dry vac. Check that you’ve resolved the blockage by pouring a small amount of clear water and watching it flow out. For serious clogs, it might be best to call the Experts.

AC Still Won’t Turn On? Call Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing!

There’s no reason to suffer without air conditioning—call your local HVAC Experts in the U.S. to help find out why your AC won’t turn on. Our well- trained technicians can troubleshoot why your unit isn’t working, and complete a repair or install a replacement. And with Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, your satisfaction is guaranteed!*