Dealing with a broken AC when it’s hot is very annoying. The thought of having to pay a lot or replace the whole system is scary. But, knowing the basic reasons why an AC might not start can ease our worry. It helps us try to fix simple problems before we call a pro.
There are many reasons an air conditioner might not start. A tripped circuit breaker is one common reason, especially in the summer. Also, in places with a lot of humidity, a blocked drain can trigger a safety switch. This switch turns off the AC to prevent damage, affecting many systems.
Other problems that stop ACs from working include blown fuses and broken thermostats. These are behind many AC issues. Also, if the part that helps the AC start, called a capacitor, fails, it leads to service calls. This happens less often but is still a notable cause.
To fix an AC that won’t start, it’s good to know these common issues. If simple steps like resetting the breaker or changing a filter don’t work, it’s smart to get help from an HVAC expert. This way, we avoid bigger problems down the line.
Understanding How Your Air Conditioner Works
Air conditioners keep our homes ac unit won’t turn on and offices comfy. Knowing how they work helps us keep them running well. The main parts of an air conditioner are key in the cooling process.
An air conditioner has three main parts: the compressor, condenser, and evaporator. Each plays a unique role in cooling. Both the compressor and condenser are found outside. The compressor squeezes refrigerant gas, raising its pressure and temperature.
The gas then moves to the condenser. Here, it cools down and turns into a liquid under pressure. The condenser gets rid of the heat, turning the gas into a liquid. This liquid is sent to the indoor evaporator coil.
Inside, at the evaporator coil, the refrigerant turns back into a gas. This step cools and dehumidifies the indoor air. It’s a crucial part in lowering the room’s temperature.
Knowing about these parts helps us take care of our air conditioners. Taking care of them means they work better and last longer. Not fixing a simple issue, like a dirty filter, can cause bigger problems.
Here is a detailed breakdown of common issues and their statistics:
| Issue | Percentage | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Thermostat Issues | 70% | Incorrect settings |
| Dirty Air Filters | 30% | Reduced airflow and inefficiency |
| Refrigerant Leaks | 15% | Inadequate cooling and energy cost increase |
| Short Cycling | 20% | Increased energy consumption and compressor damage |
| Frozen Evaporator Coil | 10-30% | Increased utility bills |
| Electrical Issues (Fuses and Breakers) | 10% | Service maintenance calls |
If we understand and maintain our air conditioners, we can avoid many problems. Regular checks and service can make them last up to five years longer. They can also run 10-15% more efficiently.
Common Reasons Why Your Air Conditioner is Not Turning On
A common problem is when your house AC won’t start because of a broken thermostat. Thermostats are key in telling your unit to start working. They ac unit won’t turn on need to work right to keep things efficient. Often, 15% of AC systems don’t start because of wrong settings or dead batteries in the thermostat. It shows how crucial it is to regularly check and take care of your thermostat since every AC unit depends on it.
Tripped circuit breakers also cause about 20% of AC failures. When there’s too much electricity, circuit breakers trip and cut off power to the AC. It’s important for homeowners to look at their breakers and reset them if needed.
Another big issue is dirty air filters, causing about 25% of problems. You should change these filters every 30 to 90 days to keep your system running well. Not changing them can overheat the system and make it shut down. This could even make your energy use go up by 50% because the air can’t move freely.
Clogged condensate drains are to blame in 10% of cases. They can make the AC stop to prevent water damage. Cleaning these drains regularly is key to keep your AC running smoothly.
About 15% of AC issues come from not having enough coolant or having leaks. This really affects how well your AC cools and can shut it down. Fixing leaks quickly is very important for your AC to work right.
Blown fuses and faulty power cords also cause 25% of the time when an AC won’t start. Checking the electrical parts often can help avoid these problems.
Lastly, bad capacitors and motors are behind 40% of AC problems, usually needing a pro to fix them. Checking your AC regularly can catch issues before they get worse.
Troubleshooting the AC Unit That Won’t Turn On
Starting with troubleshooting AC unit issues requires a careful method. About 30% of the time, the problems come from the thermostat. Make sure the thermostat is on ‘cool’ and set below room temperature. Also ac unit won’t turn on, check if the batteries need replacing.
Troubled ACs often have a tripped circuit breaker, which is another common culprit. If this happens, head over to your electric panel and flip any tripped breakers back on. Remember, circuit breakers may trip when they’re overloaded or during power surges. This scenario represents 15% of common AC issues.
Dirty or clogged air filters cause a significant 20% of AC issues. Check and change them if they’re dirty to avoid this problem. You should do this maintenance every three months. Also, inspect the cord for any damage or disconnections. This is especially important for window units, which are often affected.
Problems like refrigerant leaks or capacitor failures need detailed checks. These account for 10% and 5% of AC problems, respectively. Look for ice on the unit as a sign of a refrigerant leak. Remember, fixing this might need a professional and could take up to 24 hours to fix.
Up to 95% of AC failures can be avoided with routine maintenance. It’s critical to clean and check parts like the condensate drain lines and condenser coils. Specifically, cleaning dirty condenser coils, responsible for 25% of efficiency problems, can get your AC working right. Handling these maintenance tasks greatly reduces chances of a breakdown, making your cooling system more reliable.
AC unit won’t turn on: Other Potential Issues for AC Units
Even after thorough troubleshooting, ac unit issues can still occur. One complex problem is refrigerant leaks, which are necessary for cooling. Leaks can cause less cooling, higher bills, and might stop the AC from turning on. Regular checks can help avoid these leaks and other problems.
Faulty evaporator coils are another big issue. If ice forms on the coils, it can block the cooling. This issue needs a pro to find and fix the root problem.
Electrical problems are also major causes of ac unit issues. For example, tripped circuit breakers are behind up to 15% of AC failures. Bad install work and electrical issues can overload circuits and stop the AC from working. These electrical problems usually need a certified technician to fix them.
Let’s look more closely at these less common but serious issues homeowners deal with:
| Issue | Symptoms | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerant Leaks | Decreased efficiency, higher energy bills | Not quantified |
| Faulty Evaporator Coils | Ice formation on coils | Not quantified |
| Tripped Circuit Breakers | AC unit will not turn on | 15% |
| Thermostat Issues | Disconnected or faulty wiring | 20% |
| Clogged Condensate Lines | Water backup | 25% |
These problems ac unit won’t turn on show why regular maintenance and expert help are crucial. Regular checks can cut AC failure chances by up to 40%, making your system more efficient and longer-lasting. If problems keep happening, it’s vital to get help from a professional. This can prevent bigger damage and save on repairs.
When to Call a Professional
There are times when you really need to call for professional HVAC help. This includes dealing with refrigerant, major electrical fixes, house ac not turning on or if you keep having the same problems. Especially because not handling refrigerant properly can be dangerous and it’s also against the law.
Nearly 20% of all calls for HVAC services are about electrical problems, like a tripped circuit breaker. These issues need special tools and know-how to fix correctly. Also, if your AC stops working often because it gets too icy, it could mean there’s a bigger issue. Only a pro can really figure out and fix problems like low refrigerant levels or broken fans.
Here’s when it’s time to get a pro from a trustworthy HVAC service:
- First, check your circuit breaker and emergency shut-off if your AC won’t start. Call a pro if it still doesn’t work.
- Refrigerant leaks are bad for cooling and the environment. Only a skilled tech should fix them with the right tools and care.
- Constant breakdowns or strange sounds could mean something serious is wrong. You need a pro to check and fix it.
- Get a pro if you often have thermostat problems, to fix it safely and right.
Finding a good HVAC service matters a lot for your AC to last and work well. Take Harris Air Services as an example. They’ve been around for over 15 years and have an A+ from the Better Business Bureau. They’re known for caring about their customers and offer same-day fixes. This makes them a good choice.
Here’s a quick guide on what to look for in an HVAC service:
| Criteria | Importance | Provider Example |
|---|---|---|
| Experience | High | Harris Air Services (15+ years) |
| Certifications | High | A+ by BBB |
| Service Availability | High | Same-day Repairs |
| Cost | Moderate | $75-$150 per hour |
Hiring pros for your AC repairs is key for safety and making it work smoothly. Regular why isn’t my ac turning on care can also improve your AC’s efficiency by 5% to 15%. This means you’ll spend less on your energy bills over time.
Preventive Maintenance Tips
To help your air conditioner work well and last a long time, you should do regular upkeep. A simple but crucial tip is to often check and change air filters. You should replace filters every one to three months. If you have pets, you might need to change them more often because of extra hair and dander. Choosing filters with a higher MERV rating can also make your system filter the air better.
It’s very important to have your unit checked by professionals regularly. Systems that get professional care tend to last longer and work better. A professional should look over the unit once or twice a year. This usually costs between $75 and $150 each time. This way, you can spot problems like refrigerant leaks or thermostat issues early on. Fixing these early can stop bigger, more expensive issues.
Make sure there’s nothing blocking your outdoor unit. It’s important to keep a 24-inch space clear around it for better airflow and efficiency. Also, the unit should be level to avoid wear and tear. An unlevel unit can lead to big repair costs, sometimes over $1,000. Check the condensate drain tube often to avoid clogs that can cause mold and damage. Fixing these issues can cost $100 to $300 if not taken care of quickly.
Following these ac maintenance tips why is my central ac not turning on can prevent common issues and save a lot of energy. Fixing air leaks in ductwork can lower utility bills by 20%. Using smart thermostats can also reduce energy costs by up to 10%. By taking these steps, you can make sure your AC unit works well and efficiently. This ac not coming on keeps your home comfortable and can extend the unit’s life by 5 to 10 years.