Things can get stuffy fast when your air conditioner won't turn on in Fort Lauderdale. Thankfully, Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning is here to help you remain cool, even when your AC isn't running properly. Here are eight typical reasons why your air conditioner won't turn on and how to fix them.
1) Check the Thermostat
The simplest explanation for your AC not turning on is a thermostat issue. Double check your thermostat is on, set to "cool," and that the temperature is set to a few degrees colder than the normal ambient temperature of your home. You might also need to replace the batteries. If that doesn't solve the issue, the temperature sensor in the thermostat might be inaccurate. A thermostat that can't read the correct temperature could prevent your air conditioner from turning on. Once you've discovered that the thermostat is malfunctioning, 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 frequently depending on the number of pets and people living in your home, plus the local air pollution levels near your residence. A dirty air filter can impact airflow, causing your air conditioner to freeze and not turn on.
If your air filter looks dirty or you can't think of the last time you changed it, it's time to install 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 check 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 fixing this issue, you may have a serious problem and should contact the Experts at Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning to stop 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 could have been flipped unintentionally. These switches are often placed 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, simply turn it back on. It's always a helpful idea to label this switch to keep anyone from mistakenly turning it off.
5) Check the Outdoor Shutoff Switch
If you or someone else has recently worked on your air conditioner, they could have turned off the external shutoff switch as a safety precaution. First, find the external shutoff switch, which should be near your AC unit. If the switch is in the "OFF" position, just flip it to allow your air conditioner to turn on.
6) Locate 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, move it before going 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 ice buildup either on or inside the unit. If you discover ice on your machine, you need to wait for it to melt before going 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 Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning for a consultation to keep 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 might be backed up. When clogged, your AC won't turn on as a safety precaution. To resolve the issue, clean the drain line trying suction from a wet/dry vac. Check that you've resolved the blockage by pouring a small amount of clear water and watching it flow out. For particularly tough clogs, it might be best to call the Experts.
AC Still Won't Turn On? Call Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning!
There's no reason to suffer without air conditioning—contact your local HVAC Experts in Fort Lauderdale to help determine why your AC won't turn on. Our well- trained technicians can figure out why your unit isn't working, and complete a repair or install a replacement. And with Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning, your satisfaction is guaranteed!*
Contact us at 866-397-3787 to schedule your air conditioning appointment in Fort Lauderdale today!