AC Not Turning On? Troubleshooting Tips From Our Experts

Summers in Plymouth, MI, are typically mild, with average temperatures of 80 degrees Fahrenheit. However, when the heat rises in your home, and your air conditioner refuses to turn on, it can be a serious hassle on the hottest days of the year. Before you call in the professionals, you can check a few common issues yourself.

In this blog post, the HVAC experts at Colonial Heating & Cooling provide some simple troubleshooting tips. If these don’t work, don’t hesitate to contact us online to book same-day emergency AC repair!  

Reasons Your AC May Not Be Turning On

Before assuming the worst, there are several possible reasons your air conditioner may not power on, many of which can be easily fixed. Here’s a breakdown of the most common culprits and how to identify and address them:

Tripped Circuit Breaker

In some cases, your air conditioner may not turn on if its dedicated circuit has tripped. To check this, locate your electrical panel and see if the AC breaker has flipped to the “off” position or is stuck in the middle. Flip the breaker fully off and then back on. If the breaker trips again, it could indicate an underlying electrical issue. In that case, contacting an HVAC technician for help is best.

Thermostat Not Working

A faulty thermostat can contribute to AC issues, causing power failures with your cooling system. ensure the thermostat is powered on, has working batteries (if applicable), and is set to “cool.” Double-check that the temperature setting is lower than the current indoor temperature.

Replace the batteries if needed, and ensure the thermostat isn’t in “heat” or “off” mode. If your thermostat display is blank or unresponsive, it may need to be professionally repaired or replaced.

Clogged Air Filter

Dirty air filters can block airflow and may sometimes trigger a system shut-off as a safety measure to prevent overheating. Remove the air filter from your HVAC return vent or air handler and inspect it for excess dust and debris. If it’s dirty or hasn’t been changed in the last one to three months, replace it with a new one.

Faulty Capacitor

A faulty capacitor usually results in a humming noise from your outdoor unit or the unit trying (and failing) to start. This issue is harder to diagnose without electrical tools. Capacitor replacement is a complex job that a professional should handle. If you suspect this is the issue, contact Colonial for prompt service.

Choose Colonial for AC Services in Plymouth, MI

When DIY fixes don’t solve the issue, turn to Colonial for the expert help you need in Plymouth, MI. We provide fast diagnostics, professional repairs, and reliable service to keep your home cool and comfortable on the hottest days of the year.

Don’t let sudden AC failures disrupt your summer fun — contact us today to schedule AC repair or maintenance to keep your system running smoothly!