An air conditioning system that won’t turn on can be frustrating to deal with. It leaves us feeling overwhelmed as we try to figure out why. Read on as heating and cooling expert OK Heating and Air Conditioning explains the common causes why your AC won’t turn on, the troubleshooting steps you should take, and when it’s time to contact a technician for professional assistance with your system.
Common Causes Why Your AC Won’t Turn On
If your AC is not functioning, there are several issues you may want to check, including:
- Thermostat Issues. Your thermostat is the brain of your AC system and can be a major cause of the malfunction. As such, check that the batteries are still good. If it’s plugged in, make sure there isn’t any damage to the wiring.
- Electrical Issues. Broken wires or damaged switches could prevent your air cooler from turning on. If you think this is the issue, look for frayed wiring or foreign objects near outlets and relays. Remember to bring in an HVAC professional to deal with any serious electrical problems.
- Refrigerant Leaks. Refrigerant keeps your air conditioner running efficiently. If it’s leaking, your unit won’t function properly. It will also use more energy as it tries to cool your home, which may impact your energy bills. Signs may include ice buildup around the coils, fluid leaking in spots, and hissing noises within parts of the system.
- Clogged Air Filters. Clogged air filters don’t allow air to flow freely through them, which means they cannot pull out hot air from inside as efficiently as needed when you try switching it on. It’s a good idea to inspect air filters at least every few months, depending on how frequently you use your AC during summer days.
Troubleshooting Steps
An AC unit that will not turn on may have a simple fix. Here’s what you can do to troubleshoot the issue:
- Check the Thermostat. As mentioned earlier, if something is wrong with your thermostat, it might cause various issues when running your AC. Make sure that the batteries are in working condition and adjust the settings to the appropriate temperature needed for cooling a room.
- Look out for Whistling or Bubbling Sounds. Your AC may have a refrigerant leak if you hear bubbling or whistling sound coming from the unit. Schedule an inspection from a qualified technician right away to patch up the leak and minimize further damage. They may also add more refrigerant if necessary.
- Change the Air Filter. A clogged air filter will decrease efficiency as well as significantly reduce airflow throughout your household. Be sure to replace air filters after at least three months or as frequently as necessary. Doing this can help improve airflow and ensure your AC is in good working order.
- Contact a Professional HVAC Technician. Often, an issue within your AC requires a professional touch. An expert technician has access to tools and training not readily available to DIY enthusiasts or homeowners who don’t possess enough knowledge about HVAC systems. When in doubt, always call in a technician to take a look at your unit.
Keep Your AC Running Efficiently This Year
Your air conditioner is an important part of your daily routine, especially during hot summer days in Livermore. If your AC is experiencing an issue, you may want to start by checking the thermostat, refrigerant levels, and air filter for possible issues that could be preventing it from working properly.
For best results, get in touch with OK Heating and Air Conditioning for assistance! No matter what brand and model of AC, furnace and heat pump you have, we assure you of nothing but fast and efficient repair service. Call us at (925) 371-2665, or fill out our online contact form to schedule a service appointment today.