Steps to Troubleshoot an AC Unit That Won’t Turn On

Having an AC unit that won’t turn on can be a frustrating experience, especially during the hot summer months. Fortunately, there are a few simple steps to troubleshoot an AC unit not turning on and get it up and running again. In this article, we’ll cover how to identify the problem and the steps you need to take to get your AC unit running again. Keep reading to learn more.

Start with the thermostat.

The first step to troubleshooting an AC unit that won’t turn on starts with the thermostat. You should ensure that the thermostat is getting power. If the thermostat is unresponsive, you could have a problem with the wiring or the batteries. Just like your smoke alarms, you’ll want to be sure to change the batteries in your thermostat occasionally. If you have a wiring issue, you will need to call a professional to help diagnose and correct the issue.

Next, you’ll want to make sure the thermostat is set correctly. If you want the AC to turn on, the thermostat should be set to “cool,” and the temperature needs to be set lower than the current room temperature. If the settings are incorrect, the AC will not turn on. Additionally, you’ll want to ensure that the thermometer inside the thermostat is correct. If your thermostat isn’t reading the indoor temperature correctly, it won’t call for the AC to turn on. If you suspect that the issue is with the thermostat, you might need to have a professional technician either repair or replace the device.

Check the power and circuit breakers.

When troubleshooting an AC unit that won’t turn on, it’s important to ensure that the equipment has power. The first step is to check the power of the circuit breakers. The circuit breakers are typically located in a separate panel from the rest of the home’s electrical system, and the AC unit may have its own dedicated breaker. It is important to make sure that the breaker is set to the “On” position and that the circuit is not tripped. If the breaker is tripped, then you should reset the tripped breaker, and the AC unit should be tested again. If the breaker trips again, then it may indicate a wiring problem or a faulty circuit breaker that needs to be replaced.

Check the compressor.

If your air conditioner doesn’t turn on, you should inspect the compressor for a potential issue. The compressor is a critical component of the air conditioning system, as it is responsible for compressing the refrigerant, thereby creating the cool air that is circulated throughout the home. You should look for signs of corrosion, leaking refrigerant, or any other visible signs of damage. If there are any signs of damage, then the compressor needs to be replaced or repaired. If there are no signs of damage, then the next step is to check the compressor’s capacitor. If the capacitor is not functioning correctly, then it can cause the compressor to stop working. If the capacitor is working correctly, then the compressor should be checked for proper operation.

If the problem is with the compressor, many people assume the worst. However, in many cases, the compressor can be serviced and repaired by a qualified HVAC technician. If you suspect an issue with the compressor or the various components involved, you should have it looked at by a professional as soon as possible. Your AC will not be able to function with a malfunctioning compressor.

When your AC unit doesn’t turn on, it can create an uncomfortable environment in your home. As a result, it’s important to troubleshoot malfunctioning AC equipment as soon as possible to restore operation. If you are unable to remedy the problem, you’ll want to contact an HVAC technician to help solve the issue.