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Help! My Home Air Conditioner Won’t Turn On: Common Causes and Solutions
Did you know that the average summer temperature in Phoenix-Mesa AZ can soar up to 106°F?
With temperatures this high, it’s no surprise that many homeowners ask themselves, “Why won’t my home air conditioner turn on?”
In this article, we’ll explore the common causes of air conditioner problems and provide helpful troubleshooting tips to get your system back up and running.
Let’s dive in and keep your home cool, even during the hottest months.
Why Won’t My Home Air Conditioner Turn On? – Common Causes
Here are some of the most frequent issues that cause air conditioners to malfunction in the Phoenix Mesa – AZ region.
Learn about the factors that can lead to problems and prevent your AC from turning on.
Power Issues
One reason your AC won’t turn on might be due to power problems.
In the Phoenix Mesa – AZ area, air conditioners work hard, and sometimes that can lead to tripped circuit breakers or blown fuses.
To check if this is the problem, find your home’s electrical panel and see if any switches are flipped or fuses are blown.
If you find a tripped breaker or blown fuse, reset or replace it and try turning on your air conditioner again.
Thermostat Problems
A malfunctioning HVAC unit could also be caused by issues with the thermostat.
First, make sure that your thermostat is set to the right temperature and mode (cooling).
If the settings are correct but the air conditioner still doesn’t turn on, your thermostat might be broken or have dead batteries.
Try replacing the batteries and see if that fixes the problem.
If not, you may need to call a professional to replace the thermostat.
Dirty or Clogged Air Filters
Air filters help keep the air in your home clean, but over time they can become dirty or clogged.
When this happens, it can cause your air conditioner to work harder, which might lead to problems like your AC not turning on.
To fix this, locate your air filter (usually near the return air vent) and check if it’s dirty.
If it is, either clean it or replace it with a new one.
Frozen or Dirty Evaporator Coils
Another common cause of air conditioner problems in the Greater Phoenix-Mesa AZ area is frozen or dirty evaporator coils.
The evaporator coils are responsible for cooling the air, and if they become too cold, they can freeze.
Dirty coils can also cause issues, as dirt and debris make it harder for the coils to cool the air.
If you suspect that your evaporator coils are frozen or dirty, turn off your air conditioner and let the coils thaw.
Then, clean them with a soft brush or call a professional to do it for you.
Overheating Compressor
The compressor is a vital part of your air conditioner, and it can overheat if the unit is working too hard.
This can happen if your air conditioner is too small for your home or if there are other issues, like dirty coils or a clogged air filter.
If you think your compressor is overheating, turn off your air conditioner and let it cool down for a while.
If the problem continues, contact a professional to check your compressor and see if it needs to be replaced.
Low Refrigerant Levels
Refrigerant is the substance that helps cool the air in your air conditioner.
If your refrigerant levels are low, your air conditioner might not turn on.
Signs of low refrigerant include warm air coming from your vents, a hissing sound near the unit, or ice on the evaporator coils.
If you suspect that your refrigerant levels are low, call a professional to recharge your system.
Faulty Wiring or Electrical Connections
Improper wiring or loose electrical connections can cause your air conditioner to malfunction or not turn on at all.
This can happen when wires become corroded, connections loosen over time, or if the initial installation was done poorly.
It’s crucial to call a professional to inspect and fix any wiring issues, as attempting to fix them on your own can be dangerous and potentially worsen the problem.
Drainage Issues
Finally, drainage problems can cause your air conditioner to malfunction.
Air conditioners produce condensation, which needs to drain away from the unit.
If the drain pan or drain line becomes clogged, it can cause your air conditioner to shut down.
To fix this issue, inspect your drain pan and drain line and clean them if necessary.
When to Call a Professional HVAC Service
While some air conditioner problems can be fixed by homeowners, there are times when it’s best to call a professional AC repair service.
If you’re unsure about how to fix a problem, or if you’ve tried troubleshooting and your air conditioner still doesn’t work, it’s time to call for help.
Having your air conditioner serviced regularly can help prevent problems before they start.
A professional HVAC service can check your system, clean essential parts, and make any necessary repairs.
This can help keep your air conditioner running smoothly and prevent issues that could cause it not to turn on.
When you need help with a malfunctioning AC unit, it’s important to find an affordable, reliable HVAC service.
Look for a company with experience in your area and ask for recommendations from friends or neighbors.
You can also read reviews online to find a company with a good reputation.
Keep Your Home Cool and Comfortable
Understanding the common causes of air conditioner problems and knowing how to troubleshoot them can help you understand why your home air conditioner won’t turn on.
However, there are times when professional help is necessary to ensure your AC unit runs efficiently and reliably.
Don’t let the Arizona heat get the best of you!
Contact our experienced and affordable HVAC service team today for all your AC repair and maintenance needs.
Are you having trouble getting your AC to turn on? We can help! As one of the top air conditioning companies in Gilbert, AZ, Mark Daniels AC can accurately identify the problem and have your unit working like new in no time. We have been providing AC services in Chandler and surrounding areas since 1996. Call (480) 571-7219 or request service online today!
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