Image of a man pointing a remote at an air conditioning unit, which is currently turned off.

An air conditioner not turning on can mean different causes, such as power supply, thermostat settings, blown fuse, clogged filters, and more. To fix it, you can check thermostat settings, examine the circuit breaker, inspect the air filters, look for refrigerant leaks, and reset the unit.

When summer heat kicks in, a functioning air conditioner is essential to keeping your home cool and comfortable. But an AC that won't turn on can be frustrating. Before panicking, read this guide to understand what might be causing the issue and how to troubleshoot it.

Why Is My Air Conditioner Not Turning On?

There are several reasons why your AC outside unit is not turning on, ranging from simple fixes to more complex problems. Some issues could be related to the power supply, thermostat settings, blown fuse, clogged filters, refrigerant issues, compressor, motor, or outside AC unit not spinning. 

Common causes include electrical problems, clogged filters, or issues with refrigerant levels. Understanding the potential reasons can help you take the proper steps to resolve the problem and restore comfort to your home.

5 Common Solutions For An AC That Won't Turn On

There are different steps you can take to troubleshoot your air conditioner when it is not turning on. You must check the thermostat settings, examine the circuit breaker, inspect the air filters, look for refrigerant leaks, and reset the AC unit. 

1. Check The Thermostat Settings

Ensure that your thermostat is set to "cool" and the temperature is below the current room temperature. If it is set to "fan" or "off," the AC will not kick in. You may also want to check if the thermostat batteries need to be replaced.

2. Examine The Circuit Breaker

In case your AC outside unit is not working, your air conditioner requires a lot of power, and if there is an overload, it may trip the circuit breaker. Head to your electrical panel and check if the AC breaker has been tripped. If it has, flip it back on, but if it keeps tripping, there could be a more serious electrical issue that requires professional help.

3. Inspect The Air Filters

If your AC is not turning on, check the air filters and replace them if they are clogged with dirt and debris. Regularly changing the filters not only keeps your air conditioner running but also improves air quality in your home.

4. Look For Refrigerant Leaks

Low refrigerant levels can prevent your AC from turning on or cooling correctly. AC refrigerant leaks need to be handled by a professional HVAC technician, as they require recharging the system and repairing the leak. If you suspect low refrigerant, it is best to call an expert for help.

5. Reset The AC Unit

If your outside AC unit is not running, sometimes, a simple reset can resolve the issues. Many units have a reset button located near the control panel or outside unit. Press the button, wait a few minutes, and try turning the AC on again. If the problem persists, an internal issue might require a technician's assistance.

By following these steps, you can troubleshoot why your AC is not turning on. However, if these solutions do not work, it is best to contact homeyou HVAC professionals to diagnose and fix any deeper problems.

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