There are few things more annoying than realizing your air conditioner isn’t turning on when it’s one of the hottest days of the year. No one expects to run into this type of problem, but it happens more often than most people realize. You might think your AC is “dead,” however, there are a handful of things to look into before jumping to any conclusions.
AC not turning on? Here are a handful of reasons why this issue may be happening, as well as what homeowners in southern New Hampshire and the Newburyport, MA area can do about it.
1. You’ve Set Your Thermostat Incorrectly
This is actually a rather common issue, and one that almost always goes overlooked. Many thermostats control combined heating and cooling systems and actually feature settings such as “heat” and “cool.” If you’ve turned down the temperature by five to ten degrees but are still running into issues, be sure to ensure your thermostat is set to “cool” to rule this problem out.
2. The Air Filter is Clogged
If your air conditioner simply hasn’t been able to get the job done for a while, the problem may be smaller than you think—it could be as simple as a clogged air filter. Take a look at the unit’s return vent filter (where air gets pulled in) and check for any buildup of dust and debris. Often, an action as simple as changing the filter is all that really needs to occur to fix the problem.
3. You’ve Had a Power Surge
If your AC has stopped turning on all of a sudden, the issue may well come down to a power surge that has occurred without you knowing. Take a moment to check your main electrical panel, which is either a fuse box or a circuit panel depending upon the age of your home. If your air conditioner has a shutoff box, the chance of a blown fuse will be especially high—always check to ensure you’re not confusing a blown fuse with a broken AC.
4. The Condensate Line Needs an Extra Look
Over a long enough period of time, any air conditioner will create condensation—even as a result of normal operation. Sometimes, condensate lines get clogged, which can quickly result in a safety switch on the AC getting tripped. You may be able to bring your AC back to life with a wet-dry vacuum, or a condensate drain pump should you have access to one.
