There’s nothing more frustrating than realizing your AC unit is not turning on during a hot summer day.
Some issues can be resolved with basic troubleshooting, as described below, while others require professional assistance from an expert licensed HVAC technician to safely restore cool air to your home.
SM Mechanical Services, LLC, the leading HVAC contractor in Glastonbury, CT, is here to help you understand potential issues causing air conditioner malfunction. Our technicians are skilled and experienced in working with all types of air conditioners, heaters, and HVAC systems across Connecticut.
Common Reasons Air Condition Units Will Not Power On and Troubleshooting Tips
These are some common troubleshooting tips to try when your AC unit is not turning on.
Thermostat Issues
Thermostat trouble is a common cause of an air conditioner not coming on.
Try these steps to check the thermostat:
- Check settings. Make sure to set the switch to “cool,” and verify that the temperature is set lower than the current inside temperature.
- Replace batteries. Modern thermostats are typically battery-powered. Try replacing the batteries according to the manufacturer’s directions. Dead or malfunctioning batteries can cause the thermostat to fail to signal the unit to power up.
- Check the temperature sensor. If the thermostat is not accurately reading the indoor temperature, it cannot trigger the air conditioner to come on. This problem sometimes requires replacing the thermostat. If you need help selecting or installing a thermostat, SM Mechanical Services, LLC can help.
Air Filter Problems
Dirty intake air filters directly impact air conditioner performance. You should change air filters at least every 30 to 90 days. Clogged or excessively dirty air filters restrict airflow, which can cause the air conditioner to freeze and shut down.
Check the air filter and change it immediately if it is dirty or you can’t remember the last time you changed it. If the air conditioner unit has frozen, allow it to completely thaw before turning it back on.
Circuit Breaker Issues
Your AC unit could be consistently tripping its dedicated circuit breaker, preventing it from powering up.
Check your home’s electrical panel. Check the circuit breaker that corresponds to your air conditioner and see if it has tripped into the “off” position. If so, flip it back to “on” and see if the air conditioner will run without tripping the breaker again.
If the breaker trips again, there could be a more serious problem. Because of the dangers involved in working on the high-voltage power supply running to your AC unit, you should immediately call SM Mechanical Services, LLC for assistance.
Shutoff Switches and Reset Buttons
Air conditioners typically have shutoff switches for the indoor and outdoor parts of the unit. The indoor shutoff switch is typically near the air handler or furnace. Depending on the manufacturer, the outdoor switch is found somewhere on the outdoor unit. If either has been accidentally turned off, switch it back to the “on” position.
Some air conditioners have a reset button. Read the manufacturer’s instructions for your model to locate and try the reset button. If your unit does not have a separate reset button, turn the thermostat off for ten minutes and turn it back on to attempt a manual reset.
Ice Buildup
Ice buildup on or inside your air conditioner unit can prevent it from starting up. Check for ice, and if any is present, let it thaw completely before attempting to restart the air conditioner.
If the ice buildup returns, call SM Mechanical Services, LLC for expert assistance.
Clogged Condensate Drain Line
If the outdoor condensate drain line clogs, your air conditioner may shut down as a safety measure to prevent water damage.
If the drain line is clogged, try using a wet/dry shop vacuum to clear the blockage. Afterward, pour a small amount of water through the line to be sure it flows freely. If the clog will not easily clear, call SM Mechanical Services, LLC for help to avoid damaging the air conditioner.
When To Call SM Mechanical Services, LLC in Glastonbury, CT, First
You should not attempt to troubleshoot some situations on your own if your AC unit is not turning on. In these cases, you should immediately call the expert HVAC professionals at SM Mechanical Services, LLC to help.
Burnt Out Condenser Fan Motor
If your AC unit is powering up but the condenser fan is not running, or if you hear strange noises coming from the motor, it could be burnt out or significantly damaged. This problem requires professional inspection and repairs.
Failing Capacitor
The capacitor sends energy on demand to the fan motor and compressor during system start-up while the AC unit operates. If you hear humming noises from the outdoor unit but the AC system is not starting up, short cycles, or shuts down randomly, the capacitor could be damaged or failing.
Frozen Evaporator Coil
If the unit is running constantly but not cooling, the problem could be a frozen coil restricting the flow of refrigerant. Turn the unit completely off and call SM Mechanical Services, LLC.
Dirty Evaporator Coil
If the evaporator coil experiences significant dirt buildup, it acts as an insulator and traps heat, causing the system to run continuously without cooling. To avoid damaging the coils, a professional should clean them. Coil cleaning is part of SM Mechanical Services, LLC’s regular HVAC maintenance services.
Contact SM Mechanical Services, LLC for Any HVAC Service Issue in Glastonbury, CT
SM Mechanical Services, LLC is ready to assist you with all cooling and heating services in Glastonbury and throughout Hartford and Middlesex Counties in Connecticut.
If your AC unit is not turning on, you can be confident when you ask our expert team for assistance. We proudly hold an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and invite you to check out our five-star customer ratings. Our daily goal is to provide complete customer satisfaction with every job we perform.
Call SM Mechanical Services, LLC today at (860) 296-5100 for further information and to schedule prompt, professional, and courteous service.