Things can get stuffy fast when your air conditioner won't turn on in Nashville. Thankfully, Donelson Air Service Experts is here to help you stay cool, even when your AC isn't running properly. Here are eight possible reasons why your air conditioner won't turn on and how to fix them.
1) Check the Thermostat
The simple explanation for your AC not turning on is a thermostat issue. Check to ensure your thermostat is on, set to "cool," and that the temperature is set to a few degrees lower than the normal ambient temperature of your home. You may also need to replace the batteries. If that doesn't solve the issue, the temperature sensor in the thermostat may be inaccurate. A thermostat that can't read the desired temperature could stop your air conditioner from turning on. Once you've learned that the thermostat is faulty, it's time to replace it. If you can't decide on a thermostat that's right for your residence, speak with an Expert to help determine the best choice.
2) Check the Air Filter
Your air filter should be cleaned or replaced every 30-60 days at minimum. You should change them more often depending on the number of pets and people living in your home, and the local air pollution levels close to your residence. A dirty air filter can affect airflow, causing your air conditioner to freeze and not turn on.
If your air filter seems dirty or you can't remember the last time you changed it, it's time to get a new one. If your AC was frozen, wait for it to thaw after changing the filter before turning it back on.
3) Check the Circuit Breaker
Open the electrical panel inside your home and try to see if the circuit breaker connected to your air conditioner is tripped. You can identify if the breaker is tripped if the switch has flipped to the "OFF" position. To resolve this issue, simply flip the breaker so that it's in the "ON" position.
If your AC continues to trip the breaker after correcting this issue, you may have a serious problem and should contact the Experts at Donelson Air Service Experts to keep it from damaging your home or air conditioner.
4) Check the Indoor Shutoff Switch
Often mistaken for a light switch, if your AC won't turn on, the indoor shutoff switch may have been flipped on accident. These switches are often found near your furnace, in a closet, crawl space or attic. Once you find the shutoff switch, check to see if it's in the "OFF" position. If so, just turn it back on. It's always a smart idea to label this switch to stop anyone from mistakenly turning it off.
5) Check the Outdoor Shutoff Switch
If you or someone else has recently serviced your air conditioner, they could have turned off the external shutoff switch as a safety precaution. First, locate the external shutoff switch, which should be near your AC unit. If the switch is in the "OFF" position, you’ll need to flip it to allow your air conditioner to turn on.
6) Find the AC's Reset Button
When your air conditioner won't turn on, it could simply need to be reset. Not all ACs have a reset button, so first find out if your unit does. If you can find the reset button, press it before attempting to turn your AC on again. If you can't find the reset button, manually reset your air conditioner by switching your thermostat off for five to 10 minutes before turning it back on again.
7) Inspect the AC for Ice Buildup
Inspect the air conditioner for any icy buildup either on or inside the unit. If you come across ice on your machine, you need to wait for it to thaw before trying to start the unit or you risk damaging the AC. Though there are various reasons you may see ice on your air conditioner, it's always preferable to call Donelson Air Service Experts for a consultation to prevent further damage from occurring.
8) Ensure the Condensate Drain Isn't Clogged
If you don't see ice on the air conditioner, the condensate drain may be backed up. When clogged, your AC won't turn on as a safety precaution. To resolve the issue, clear the drain line with suction from a wet/dry vac. Check that you've removed the blockage by pouring a small amount of clear water and watching it flow out. For particularly tough clogs, it could be best to call the Experts.
AC Still Won't Turn On? Call Donelson Air Service Experts!
There's no reason to suffer without air conditioning—reach out to your local HVAC Experts in Nashville to help discover why your AC won't turn on. Our highly trained technicians can troubleshoot why your unit isn't working, and complete a repair or install a replacement. And with Donelson Air Service Experts, your satisfaction is guaranteed!*
Contact us at 866-397-3787 to schedule your air conditioning appointment in Nashville today!