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

Things can get uncomfortable fast when your air conditioner won’t turn on in Windsor. Thankfully, Bryant Heating & Cooling Service Experts is here to help you remain cool, even when your AC isn’t starting 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 problem. Double check your thermostat is on, set to “cool,” and that the temperature is set to a few degrees colder than the normal ambient temperature of your home. You will also sometimes need to replace the batteries. If that doesn’t resolve 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 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, speak 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 often depending on the number of pets and people living in your home, in addition to the local air pollution levels close to your residence. A dirty air filter can affect airflow, causing your air conditioner to freeze and not turn on. 

If your air filter seems 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 attempt 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 resolving this issue, you may have a serious problem and should get in touch with the Experts at Bryant Heating & Cooling Service Experts 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 accidentally. These switches are usually placed near your furnace, in a closet, crawl space or attic. Once you locate the shutoff switch, check to see if it’s in the “OFF” position. If so, just turn it back on. It’s always a good idea to label this switch to keep anyone from mistakenly switching 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 find out if your unit does. If you can find the reset button, press it before trying to turn your AC on again. If you can’t reach 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 discover ice on your machine, you need to wait for it to thaw 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 smartest to call Bryant Heating & Cooling Service Experts for a consultation to prevent 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. Verify that you’ve resolved the blockage by pouring a small amount of clear water and watching it flow out. For severe clogs, it might be best to call the Experts. 

AC Still Won’t Turn On? Call Bryant Heating & Cooling Service Experts! 

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

Contact us at 226-773-3357 to schedule your air conditioning appointment in Windsor today!