What to Do When Your AC Won't Turn On

Summer days in Chicago can be extremely hot, and a broken AC can make your home unbearable.

You rely on your AC to make your home comfortable. When it doesn’t work, it can be frustrating to spend money on costly repairs or a new AC system. Fortunately, there are several things you can check before calling an HVAC professional to get your air conditioner working again.

Common Reasons Your Air Conditioner Isn’t Turning On

Thermostat Issues

If your system isn’t functioning properly, you might not have a broken AC unit. It could be an issue with your thermostat. A simple mistake, like not setting it to cool, can keep your AC from kicking on when it’s supposed to. Try resetting it and see if that fixes the issue.

Electrical Problems

Your AC won't turn on if there is no electricity running to it. Check your circuit breaker. If it was tripped, it must be reset to turn the unit back on. You'll also need to check that your condenser has not been disconnected or damaged.

Dirty Air Filter

If your air filter is dirty, it restricts air flow to the unit, which might cause it to freeze and not turn on. To change your AC filter, turn off the device, remove the cover, and remove the old one. To avoid further issues, you’ll need to ensure the new one is installed in the same airflow position. Once inserted, replace the cover and turn your unit back on.

Ice Build-Up

A clogged air filter will result in ice on your unit. Low refrigerant levels can also lead to freezing. It can take up to 24 hours to thaw and start cooling again. Depending on the reason it iced over, you might need to schedule AC maintenance or repairs.

Indoor and Outdoor Shut-Off Switch

Check both the indoor and outdoor switches. Make sure neither one is stopping your air conditioner from turning on. The indoor one looks like a light switch. It may have been accidentally flipped, shutting off the system. You can find the outside switch near your AC unit. It may have turned it off by accident or as a precaution.

Clogged Drain Line

The drain line directs water away from the AC unit. If it is clogged, it will trigger a safety mechanism that will prevent the unit from being turned on. It must be removed before you can use your air conditioner again.

Dirty Coils

Dirty coils limit airflow, stopping your air conditioner from cooling and even from turning on. The condenser and evaporator coils should be cleaned regularly. You might need a professional to remove the buildup and get your AC working again.

Bad Motor

The motor in your compressor allows your cooling system to operate by circulating the refrigerant. If the motor is blown, the compressor can’t function, meaning your air conditioner won’t turn on. You’ll need to schedule a repair to replace the motor.

Wiring Issues

Loose wires and frayed connections can cause electrical issues, which can result in your AC not turning on. Since wires are out in the open and exposed to the weather, they get worn out and become exposed over time. Any type of wiring failure can prevent your air conditioner from working.

When To Call a Professional

If simple troubleshooting, checking the various components, and basic air conditioning system maintenance did not work, it might be time to schedule air conditioning repair to fix your broken AC.

Electrical problems, broken parts, or leaks are best left to the professionals. If you notice any unusual smells or sounds, call a professional to avoid causing additional damage to your AC unit.

If your air conditioner won't turn on or blows warm air, get it serviced immediately. An expert HVAC technician can diagnose the issue and get your system up and running again.

Don’t Skip HVAC Maintenance

Regular HVAC maintenance can prevent most problems that stop your air conditioner from turning on. During AC maintenance, a technician will inspect all the components and parts to ensure they are in good working condition. They'll also clean clogged filters or coils, inspect the electrical connections, and perform minor repairs to ensure your system cools effectively.

Doing this every six months will help your system last longer and prevent small problems from turning into bigger problems.

Contact the experts at Ardmore Fresh Air to schedule your air conditioning service today!