# What to Do When Your AC Won’t Turn On
We all know that summertime can be extremely hot, so it is important to be prepared in the event that your AC unit stops working. The temperatures are simply too high to bear without the help of an air conditioner. Unfortunately, if you come to find that your AC unit isn’t working, it can be a stressful and uncomfortable situation. Fortunately, in this article, we will break down why your AC won’t turn on, what to do about it, and a few tips for prevention.
## 1. Troubleshooting the Problem
Before considering other causes, it is important to ensure that your AC is indeed not working. Check the power source and ensure the cord is still connected to the wall; have you possibly switched off its wall switch unknowingly? Furthermore, you may want to take a look at your breaker as the breaker could have tripped; if so, try to reset it. If none of these items have been the cause of your malfunction, then you may consider other potential causes.
## 2. Check the Thermostat
Sometimes, your AC will not turn on because the thermostat is not properly set to cool or it is simply not set to the right temperature. It is useful to note the difference between a digital and non-digital thermostat. If you have a non-digital thermostat, set it to cool with a slide switch and then set the desired temperature. Digital thermostats, on the other hand, may require batteries to power them; if so, make sure to replace them.
## 3. Inspect the Air Handler
After double checking the power source and thermostat, it is time to move on to the air handler—also known as an evaporator coil. Make sure this unit is free of dirt and dust, as any dust buildup can cause a lack of air flow through the unit. An air handler should always be running in order to move air; if it is not, the compressor will not turn on. Additionally, if you see a frosty buildup on the evaporator coils or any fins, it is likely that they need to be thawed. This can be done by locating the emergency disconnect switch and turning off your AC unit. Wait anywhere from fifteen minutes to an hour and then turn the unit back on.
## 4. Ensure the Outdoor Unit is On
The outdoor unit capitalizes off of the same electrical system as the indoor air handler. This can be checked by simply listening for the compressor motor to run, as this will create a steady hum. If the compressor motor is not running, you may want to check its circuit breaker, capacitors, and the contactor. If any of these components are defective, it will prevent the motor from running and thus, you will need to have it replaced.
## 5. Clean the Condenser Coils
If the outdoor unit is indeed running, but the condenser coils are too dirty, it will prevent the unit from transferring heat out of your house. Vacuum the outdoor unit and then using a garden hose, rinse the condenser coils with a gentle stream of water. Periodically remove any access dirt or debris with a long-handled, soft bristle brush.
## 6. Professional Help
If the above troubleshooting techniques have been unsuccessful and all else has failed, an appliance repair specialist or HVAC technician can quickly diagnose whether it is the thermostat, air handler, or the outdoor unit that has caused the malfunction. It could even be something as minor as a loose wire or as major as a replacement compressor motor that needs to be installed.
## Prevention
Although it is impossible to prevent all AC malfunctions, there are some steps that can be taken to help ensure that this unit runs smoothly and efficiently. Clean or replace the air filter every month; if ever dust and debris are found, consider a more frequent schedule. Now and then, it is a good idea to visit the outdoor unit and ensure any leaves or grass clippings have been cleared away. Additionally, the air handler should be routinely inspected for any dust buildup.
In the case that your AC stops working, we suggest calling Local Reliable Appliance Repair at (866) 516-1222. They can service you with professionals in the San Diego and nearby areas. Additionally, if you wish to read more information regarding AC not turning on, click here.
The prospect of your air conditioning not working can be very stressful; however, if you follow the troubleshooting steps mentioned above, you should be able to get it up and running in no time. By preventing any additional damage, you can save yourself time, energy, and lots of money. Taking the preventative steps outlined in this article can help your home stay cool and comfortable all summer long.
Advice to Help Avoid AC Not Turning On Issues in San Diego
Living in San Diego, having an air conditioner that won’t turn on can be a major burden. To avoid this unpleasant experience, here are some recommendations from experienced local appliance and HVAC technicians:
Maintenance and Cleaning
- Have your air conditioner serviced at least once a year.
- Change air filters regularly, at least once a month during the summer.
- Clean your air conditioner’s fins and coils regularly, as dirt in the fins can prevent airflow and cooling.
- Conduct a visual inspection of the unit, looking for loose connections or worn belts, to ensure the AC motor is functioning properly.
Protection and Safety
- Don’t block the flow of air to or from the unit by placing objects near or against the unit.
- Keep your AC’s external fan clean and free from debris, ensuring that it can operate properly.
- Ensure the unit is connected to a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI).
Why Use a Professional Technician?
It is important to remember that any major repairs and maintenance to an air conditioner should be undertaken by an experienced professional. Failing to do so could lead to serious safety issues, particularly if the AC unit is not connected to a GFCI. An experienced HVAC technician will be able to spot and diagnose any minor issues that may be causing the unit to not turn on.
By following the tips above, you can be sure that your air conditioning unit will always be running at peak performance and prevent potential future breakdowns. If the issue persists, contact a reliable appliance repair service in San Diego, such as Local Reliable Appliance Repair at (866) 516-1222 for assistance.
Unravelling the Cost of Repairing an AC That Won’t Turn On in San Diego
When an AC unit won’t turn on, the repair can involve anything from a faulty component to a complete system overhaul. It pays to enlist the help of a pro – especially in San Diego where air-conditioning is integral to comfort in summer months. At Local Reliable Appliance Repair, a minimum repair cost starts at $90, with more complex issues priced at $180 or more. This cost covers labour, materials and any parts replacement necessary.
Components that may need replacing are the thermostat, capacitor, contactor or compressor. The thermostat tells the AC when to turn on and off and if it’s malfunctioning, this needs to be replaced – which can start at $40. The capacitor helps the motor start and if it’s faulty, needs to be changed which could cost up to $150. The contactor is responsible for turning on the main power and a new one costs around $50, while a compressor is the most expensive part involved, with a price tag upwards of $800.
It is important to note that the cost of some components can vary drastically depending on the brand, power, and size of the unit. It’s why it pays to rely on a professional, who can assess the full scope of the issue and work with you to provide the most cost-effective service. To talk to someone at Local Reliable Appliance Repair about your AC repair needs, call (866) 516-1222 or visit their website to book an appointment.
When Your AC Won’t Turn On – Get Reliable Appliance Repair in San Diego
When it comes to fixing your air conditioner when it won’t turn on, you need an experienced, reliable local partner. At Reliable Appliance Repair in San Diego, we provide same-day service for AC not turning on issues. We understand that time is of the essence when your AC is not working.
Reliable Appliance Repair is run by a family-owned local business, which puts a focus on top-notch customer experience. We employ highly trained technicians with at least 5 years of experience in the HVAC and appliance repair industry. You can trust us to pay attention to the details and deliver outstanding results. Plus, we offer fair and affordable pricing.
What’s more, we’re licensed and insured, so you can rely on us to take all necessary safety measures when we fix or replace your AC or other appliances. We’ll do whatever it takes to make sure that you are satisfied with the job we do. Give us a call at (866) 516-1222, and we’ll be there today to help with any AC not turning on repairs or installations you might need.
FAQs: What To Do When Your AC Won’t Turn On
- Q: What can cause my AC not to turn on?
- A: A few common causes include a tripped circuit breaker, an issue with the thermostat, or a condenser issue.
- Q: What should I do first if my AC won’t turn on?
- A: Check your circuit breaker and replace the batteries in your thermostat if needed.
- Q: When should I call a professional?
- A: If the issue is not resolved after checking the circuit breaker and replacing the thermostat batteries, contact a reliable AC repair service.
For all your AC issues, call Local Reliable Appliance Repair at (866) 516-1222.