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When your outside AC unit suddenly refuses to turn on, it can be frustrating—especially when dealing with the blazing heat in Texas. But don’t worry; we’re here to help you get your unit back in action. The relief you’ll feel when your home is relaxed and comfortable again is just around the corner. Whether you’ve noticed that your unit isn’t responding to your thermostat or you’re hearing unusual noises, we’ve got you covered.
If you are dealing with an outside AC unit not turning on, this blog is for you because we’ll talk about some of the reasons and give you a few actionable troubleshooting steps before calling in the experts.
Before diving into troubleshooting, it’s helpful to understand what might be causing your AC unit’s issue. Here are some common reasons:
Thermostat Issues: Sometimes, the problem isn’t the AC unit but your thermostat. It won’t communicate properly with the outside unit if it’s not set correctly or the batteries are dead.
Tripped Circuit Breaker: If your AC unit draws too much power, it could trip the circuit breaker. When this happens, the unit won’t turn on until the breaker is reset.
Faulty Capacitor: This critical component starts the compressor and fan motor. If it’s damaged, your AC unit might fail to start altogether.
Dirty or Clogged Air Filters: When the filters are dirty or clogged, tehy can cause your system to overheat, preventing the outside unit from turning on. It’s essential to change your filters regularly to avoid this issue.
Damaged Contactor: The contactor is a switch in your outdoor AC unit that helps control the flow of electricity. If it’s faulty, the unit may not get the power it needs to turn on.
Low Refrigerant Levels: If your system lacks enough refrigerant, it won’t function properly. In some cases, low refrigerant levels can even cause the compressor to shut down.
Wiring Problems: Loose or damaged wiring can prevent your AC unit from receiving power. If you suspect wiring issues, it’s best to contact a professional to avoid any safety hazards.
Now that you know what might be causing the problem, let’s explore some basic troubleshooting steps that are safe and easy to follow before calling an HVAC professional.
First, ensure your thermostat is set to “cool” and the temperature is lower than the current room temperature. You’d be surprised how often a simple thermostat adjustment can solve the issue. Also, check the thermostat batteries and replace them if needed.
A tripped circuit breaker is one of the most common causes of an AC unit not turning on. Head over to your electrical panel and check if the breaker for your AC has tripped. If it has, flip it back on. But be cautious—if it keeps tripping, there might be a more significant electrical issue, and you’ll need to call a professional.
Dirty air filters can cause your system to work harder than it should, leading to overheating and shutdowns. Check your filters and replace them if they’re dirty. As a rule, air filters should be changed every 1 to 3 months, depending on your usage.
Take a quick walk around your outside AC unit. Is there any debris, like leaves or branches, blocking the airflow? Clear the area around the unit to allow for proper ventilation. Additionally, check for any visible signs of damage to the unit.
If your outside unit is making strange buzzing, humming, or clicking sounds but not turning on, it could be a sign of a faulty capacitor or contactor. These parts are essential for starting the unit; if they’re damaged, you’ll need to get them replaced by a professional.
A faulty capacitor can stop your AC unit from turning on. While testing or replacing a capacitor isn’t a DIY job, you can visually inspect it. If the capacitor looks swollen or is leaking, it’s time to call in an expert.
If you’ve ruled out the fundamental issues, you’re likely dealing with a more complex problem, such as wiring issues or low refrigerant levels. In these cases, it’s essential to contact a professional HVAC technician. Handling refrigerants requires proper certification, and electrical repairs can be dangerous.
Regular maintenance is one of the best ways to avoid the headache of your outside AC unit not turning on. By scheduling routine HVAC inspections, you can catch potential issues before they become full-blown problems, making you feel proactive and in control of your home’s comfort.
For instance, during an inspection, a technician can check refrigerant levels, test electrical connections, and replace worn-out components like the capacitor or contactor.
Also, check out our previous blog on “Parts Of the HVAC System“. In this blog, we provide a detailed look at how each part plays a role in your AC’s functionality, which can help you better understand your system and troubleshoot issues like an outside AC unit not turning on.
If you’ve gone through all these troubleshooting steps and your outside AC unit still isn’t turning on, it’s time to call the pros. At Air Texas A/C & Heating, we specialize in diagnosing and repairing HVAC issues quickly and efficiently, ensuring your home stays relaxed and comfortable. We’re here to support you when you need it most.
An outside AC unit not turning on can cause severe discomfort, especially during the summer months in Texas. However, with the proper troubleshooting steps, you can often pinpoint the problem and determine whether it’s something simple or requires professional attention.
This understanding can empower you to take the steps needed to get your AC unit back in action.