Few things are more alarming than pressing your thermostat and getting nothing but silence from your air conditioning system. Before assuming the worst, there are a few simple checks homeowners can perform themselves. Old Glory Air Conditioning and Heating walks through what to check and when it's time to call for professional help.
It sounds simple, but confirming your thermostat is set to cool mode, with the temperature set below the current room temperature, is always the first step. Dead batteries or a display that's gone blank can also prevent your system from receiving the signal to start.
A tripped breaker is one of the most common reasons an AC won't start at all. Check your home's electrical panel for a breaker labeled for your HVAC system and reset it if it has tripped. If it trips again shortly after resetting, this points to a bigger electrical issue that needs professional attention.
Most outdoor AC units have a disconnect switch near the unit itself, sometimes housed in a small gray box. Confirm this switch is in the "on" position, as it can occasionally be bumped or accidentally switched off.
Many systems include a condensate overflow safety switch that automatically shuts the system down if the drain pan fills with water, preventing water damage. If this switch has tripped, the underlying drainage issue will need to be addressed before the system will restart.
If you hear a faint humming or clicking sound but the system still won't start, this can indicate a failed capacitor or contactor, which are relatively common and repairable issues rather than a sign of a complete system failure.
If you've confirmed your thermostat settings, checked the breaker, and verified the disconnect switch without success, it's time to call a professional. Continuing to reset breakers repeatedly without understanding the underlying cause can potentially cause further damage.
An AC that won't turn on could stem from a wide range of issues, from something simple to a more involved electrical or mechanical failure. A trained technician can quickly narrow down the cause and get your system running safely again.
If your air conditioner won't start and basic troubleshooting hasn't helped, our team is ready to diagnose and repair the issue so your home can get back to being comfortable.
