There’s nothing more frustrating than entering your home on a hot day, setting your thermostat to cool, but the AC is not turning on, and realizing that your home isn’t cooling down! It can make your blood boil with anger even more! If you’ve ever faced this issue, you’re not alone. A malfunctioning air conditioning unit can be caused by incorrect thermostat settings or more serious problems like a faulty indoor blower motor or a refrigerant leak. Before you panic, let’s go over some reasons your air conditioner isn’t working and what you can do about it. So, let’s go into the details!
Common Reasons Your AC Won’t Turn On
Here are some common reasons why your air conditioning at home may not turn on! Let’s explore these reasons together, one by one!
Incorrect Thermostat Settings
Before calling an HVAC technician, double-check the thermostat settings. Make sure it’s set to cool and that the current room temperature is higher than the thermostat setting. If your thermostat is set to “fan” instead of “auto,” it will only be blowing air rather than producing cool air.
Tripped Circuit Breaker or Power Supply Issues
The AC relies on your home’s electrical system to function. A circuit breaker that is tripped can cut power to the air conditioning system, preventing it from turning on. To solve this issue, locate your electrical panel and check if the circuit breaker controlling your air conditioner system has flipped. If it has, reset it and see if that solves the problem. Frequent trips generally indicate faulty wiring or other electrical problems that require a professional HVAC technician.
Clogged Air Filters
Reason number 3 — clogged air filters! Clogged or dirty air filters restrict airflow, causing your air conditioning unit to struggle. If airflow is low, the system may even shut down to prevent damage. Replacing the air filters regularly (every 1 to 3 months) can keep your cooling system running properly.
Faulty Indoor Blower Motor
If the AC unit in your home or office is running but isn’t producing cold air, a faulty indoor blower motor could be the issue. This motor is responsible for pushing cool air through the vents, and if it’s malfunctioning, you may need a professional HVAC technician to inspect, fix, or replace it.
Float Switch Activation or Clogged Condensate Line
Your drain line removes extra moisture from the air conditioning system. A clogged condensate line can trigger the float switch, which shuts off the AC system to prevent water damage. If you suspect that there is a clog, try using a wet/dry vacuum to clear it. However, call an HVAC professional for help, as these are not DIY tasks and require professional training and expertise.
Outdoor AC Unit Problems
The outdoor AC unit is important for cooling your home. If the outdoor condenser unit isn’t receiving power or is blocked by debris, it could prevent your air conditioner from working. Regularly check the outdoor unit for obstructions and clear away dirt or leaves.
Refrigerant Leak
If your home’s AC is running but not producing cold air, a refrigerant leak might be the cause. Low refrigerant levels mean your AC system can’t cool properly; only a professional HVAC technician can fix this problem. So call your local HVAC pros!
Power Outages or Electrical Problems
Sudden power outages can cause your AC to shut down, sometimes requiring a manual reset. Faulty wiring in your home or unit can also prevent your AC system from functioning properly. If you suspect electrical damage, avoid DIY fixes and call your local HVAC technician company.
When to Call a Professional HVAC Technician?
While some minor fixes can be done yourself, certain common air conditioner problems require a trained expert and experience in HVAC repair and replacement. If you’ve tried all the above steps and your air conditioning still isn’t working, it’s time to contact a professional HVAC technician. In fact, we suggest you call professionals for all of your HVAC-related issues so that safety is not compromised!
Final Thoughts
When your thermostat is set to cool, but the AC is not turning on, it’s important to troubleshoot issues like a faulty indoor blower motor, a tripped circuit breaker, or clogged air filters. However, we recommend calling your local HVAC technician to ensure the work is done safely. Regular maintenance of your air conditioning unit and air filters can help prevent many of these issues and keep the cooling system running without any issues.
For professional assistance, reach out to Greenstreet HVAC today! Be it repairs, installations, or maintenance, our team of experts is ready to restore comfort to your home.
Green Street HVAC: Your Trusted HVAC Experts
If your home’s thermostat is set to cool but the AC is not turning on, Green Street HVAC is here to help in Tennessee! Our team specializes in diagnosing and repairing AC systems, ensuring you stay cool all summer.
We also offer HVAC services to keep your home comfortable all year and in every season. Our AC repair and maintenance cover issues such as clogged condensate lines, faulty indoor blower motors, and dirty air filters, ensuring your system runs smoothly.
If you need a new AC installed, we provide energy-efficient units. Our HVAC system inspections help detect refrigerant leaks, electrical problems, and other issues before they become costly repairs. We also specialize in thermostat repairs and upgrades, making sure your settings are optimized for comfort.
We proudly serve homeowners and businesses in Nashville, Brentwood, Franklin, Murfreesboro, Hendersonville, and nearby areas. Contact our HVAC specialists today!
