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

Things can get stuffy 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 stay cool, even when your AC isn’t running properly. Here are eight typical reasons why your air conditioner won’t turn on and how to fix them. 

1) Check the Thermostat 

The easiest explanation for your AC not turning on is a thermostat malfunction. 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 will also sometimes need to replace the batteries. If that doesn’t solve the issue, the temperature sensor in the thermostat might be inaccurate. A thermostat that can’t read the desired temperature could prevent your air conditioner from turning on. Once you’ve verified 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, speak with an Expert to help determine the best choice

2) Check the Air Filter 

Your air filter should be changed every 30-60 days at minimum. You should change them more frequently depending on the number of pets and people living in your home, and the local air pollution levels surrounding your residence. A dirty air filter can impact airflow, causing your air conditioner to freeze and not turn on. 

If your air filter looks dirty or you can’t think of the last time you changed it, it’s time to install 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 correcting this issue, you could have a serious problem and should call the Experts at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing to keep 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 placed near your furnace, in a closet, crawl space or attic. Once you find the shutoff switch, make sure it’s in the “OFF” position. If so, you’ll need to turn it back on. It’s always a smart idea to label this switch to keep anyone from mistakenly shifting it off. 

5) Check the Outdoor Shutoff Switch 

If you or someone else has recently repaired or maintained your air conditioner, they may have turned off the external shutoff switch as a safety precaution. First, locate 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) Identify 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 determine if your unit does. If you can find the reset button, move it before attempting 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 

Inspect the air conditioner for any icy buildup either on or inside the unit. If you come across ice on your machine, you need to wait for it to melt before going 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 & Plumbing 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 trying suction from a wet/dry vac. Test that you’ve fixed 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—reach out to your local HVAC Experts in the U.S. to help discover why your AC won’t turn on. Our highly 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 & Plumbing, your satisfaction is guaranteed!* 

Contact us at 866-397-3787 to schedule your air conditioning appointment in the U.S. today!