An AC unit provides you with a comfortable indoor environment, and it can be frustrating when it fails to turn On. Unfortunately, there can be several reasons why an air conditioning system is not turning On, from a thermostat malfunction to a clogged condensate drain line. You may need to consult an AC troubleshooting chart to figure out why your AC is not working. While minor issues can be fixed yourself, however, others can require professional assistance. Keep reading to learn common reasons why the AC won’t turn on and what you can do to fix the problem.
Regulate Thermostat Settings
If the AC unit does not turn On, the reason could be a faulty thermostat. If there is an issue with the thermostat, the AC should have power, but it might not be blowing cold. This could result from thermostat settings being set to a higher setting. You can lower the temperature to a few degrees less than the indoor temperature and see if that resolves the issue. A common problem with thermostats is weak batteries, which can be easily fixed through battery replacement. There can also be dirt on the thermostat sensors, which can be cleaned with a soft brush. However, if there are any corrosion issues or a blown fuse, consider calling a professional for an inspection.
Check the Circuit Breaker
One of the common reasons why the AC unit fails to turn On is a tripped circuit breaker. Causes behind a circuit breaker tripping can be the AC unit overheating or not receiving enough electricity. When the circuit breaker trips, the AC system does not get the power to turn ON. You can go to the control panel or breaker box to reset the circuit breaker. If the circuit breakers are burnt, you may need to replace them.
Check for Refrigerant Leaks
The refrigerant is present in the coils inside the AC unit. This fluid is vital for the heat transfer cycle of the AC. Leakage in the AC coils can cause the refrigerant to leak. A refrigerant leak can prevent the AC system from cooling properly, and it may even lead to corrosion. A trained HVAC professional can check for leaks, fix the issue, and refill the system with a compatible refrigerant.
Clean the Condensate Drain Line
The excess moisture in evaporator coils is collected on the drain pan from where it flows through the drain line. If the condensate drain line becomes clogged, it can cause numerous problems, including mold growth, water damage, increased humidity, or the inability of the AC to turn On. The condensate drain line can be cleaned by removing it and removing any dust, debris, or other pollutants.
Clean the AC Filters
If the AC filters are not cleaned regularly, AC components can overheat, leading to AC breakdown. When AC filters get clogged, they can restrict proper air circulation, causing the AC system to work harder and eventually stop working. In some cases, the indoor AC unit freezes due to clogged air filters. Not only will you need to clear or replace the air filters, but you might also need to get the AC components inspected and repaired by a technician.
