If your AC isn’t turning on, it can be a hassle, especially if it’s hot outside! Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to fix this issue. Check out our guide on how to get your AC unit pumping cool air through your home again.
If you’ve checked the switch and the circuit breaker but are still having AC troubles, and need to call the experts for a helping hand, visit River Valley Air Conditioning for reliable AC repair services.
Table of Contents
Before you begin
Ensure that the emergency shut-off switch hasn’t been accidentally turned off; this switch resembles a light switch and may have been mis-clicked by anyone working on your unit recently.
Also, make sure everything is plugged in and any battery devices have a fresh, working set.
Check your thermostat
The thermostat is responsible for informing an AC unit to turn on and blow cool air; if its settings are off or too high, this could prevent it from activating.
First and foremost, it’s essential that you visually inspect your thermostat to make sure it is plugged in and set to “cool” mode. Also, be wary if anyone has changed its settings or if rodents have chewed through the wires!
If your AC still won’t turn on, check your circuit breaker. This may be especially helpful if your circuit breaker keeps tripping – which could indicate issues with electrical wiring or a malfunctioning air conditioner. Resetting multiple breakers at once can result in electrical fire hazards, so to stay safe, it is wiser to consult a professional.
Check your batteries
A faulty thermostat or batteries are often to blame for an AC that won’t turn on. Check that the thermostat is set on and set at “cool.” Otherwise, it could mean either that its battery has died or its mechanism malfunctioned – both are likely culprits.
Another common electrical issue is a tripped circuit breaker. This safety feature shuts off power to specific electrical components like your air conditioner. You can quickly check this by opening up the main electrical panel (also known as the fuse box) and looking for any breakers that have been switched “Off.”
Check your circuit breaker
Ensure your air conditioner’s circuit breaker is not accidentally switched to “Off.” These are located in a box in your home, such as a closet, crawl space or attic.
They can easily be accidentally switched while working on your AC or indicate other electrical problems requiring immediate attention from an electrician.
Your air conditioner creates condensation that must be drained away, and sometimes, this drain line becomes clogged with sludge, prompting a float switch to shut down your AC to protect against flood waters.
Check your air filter
Dirty air filters can force your AC to work overtime, leading to overheated capacitors and eventual burnouts. This is often an issue in older AC units and can easily be solved by switching out for new filters.
Faulty thermostats can prevent your AC from turning on, too. If it is older or recently updated with newer model thermostats, its wires could become disconnected over time and need professional repairs to reconnect them properly. In such instances, you should contact a service professional for repairs to ensure proper functioning.
