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 Dayton. Thankfully, Stevenson Service Experts is here to help you stay cool, even when your AC isn't functioning 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 may also need to replace the batteries. If that doesn't solve the issue, the temperature sensor in the thermostat could be inaccurate. A thermostat that can't read the correct temperature could stop 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, ask 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 regularly 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 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 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 could have a serious problem and should call the Experts at Stevenson Service Experts to prevent 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 might have been flipped accidentally. These switches are typically placed near your furnace, in a closet, crawl space or attic. Once you find the shutoff switch, confirm it's in the "OFF" position. If so, just 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 worked on your air conditioner, they may 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) Identify the AC's Reset Button

When your air conditioner won't turn on, it could 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, 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

Look over 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 Stevenson Service Experts for a consultation to keep 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 could be backed up. When clogged, your AC won't turn on as a safety precaution. To resolve the issue, clear the drain line with 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 could be best to call the Experts.

AC Still Won't Turn On? Call Stevenson Service Experts!

There's no reason to suffer without air conditioning—reach out to your local HVAC Experts in Dayton to help determine 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 Stevenson Service Experts, your satisfaction is guaranteed!*

Contact us at 866-397-3787 to schedule your air conditioning appointment in Dayton today!