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Book NowAir conditioner startup issues can happen for many reasons. The problems can range from simple to more advanced and vary in repair costs. It’s essential to understand the reasons why your AC unit won’t turn on. Leave all repair issues to the professional HVAC technicians at Monkey Wrench Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric.
Power Supply Issues
One of the first things we check, when there is a problem with startup, is the power supply. Your AC cannot turn on without electricity even a new unit. Power supply issues can occur for many reasons, including faulty wiring. It is crucial to find the cause of the power failure to avoid surges and other concerns.
Tripped Circuit Breaker
A tripped circuit breaker can disrupt and prevent your AC from powering on. The breaker’s function is to avoid power surges that could lead to fires. You may only realize the circuit breaker has tripped if you peek inside the electric box. There is a problem if the breaker linked to your air conditioner is in the “Off” position. We need to determine what is causing the tripped breaker before you operate the AC again.
Blown Fuse
Older systems use fuses to protect the condenser from power surges and the electrical components from damage. Fuses blow when there is too much current running through them. This is their function and design. Interrupting the circuit prevents electrical damage. We will replace the blown fuse to restore power to the AC. Our team will also check the underlying cause of the blown fuse and suggest repairs.
Power Switch Issue
Air conditioners feature a power switch on the outdoor unit and one that controls the inside system. The switches must be on for the air conditioner to start. Do not restore the switch to the “On” position without seeking AC repairs first.
Damaged or Loose Wiring
Our HVAC technicians at Monkey Wrench Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric often find this issue during AC repair calls. Your air conditioner’s electrical system can become worn or loose with age. Damaged electrical wiring can cause start issues, fires, or electric shocks.
Corrosion, fraying, and wire deterioration can occur. Pests can also cause wiring damage. Wires not properly connected can lead to short circuits because of an inconsistent electricity flow.
Thermostat Concerns
Your thermostat is the primary control source of your AC. If it fails to work correctly, your AC may not power on. Thermostats usually last around 10 years but can fail prematurely because of dirt and corrosion.
Dead Batteries
If your thermostat operates by battery, dead batteries could be why your AC fails to turn on incorrectly. We recommend changing the batteries at least once a year to keep your thermostat working properly.
Incorrect Settings
Your AC may not turn on if you have set it incorrectly or if it is set to “Auto.” This is because the room has not reached the set temperature. It’s also essential to ensure you set the thermostat to “Cool.”
Faulty Thermostat
Your thermostat could also be in the process of failing, or it might have failed completely. The following are signs we see with a faulty thermostat:
- AC that won’t come on
- Display that is unresponsive
- Temperature that doesn’t match the setting
- Temperature that fluctuates
- Short-cycling in the system
Clogged Air Filters
Your air conditioner’s filter is critical for airflow. A clogged air filter prevents normal airflow and causes the evaporator coil or line to freeze. Never try to turn on a frozen air conditioner. Significant damage may occur.
Monkey Wrench Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric advises you to change or clean your AC filter regularly. Change it every 90 days or according to the manufacturer’s instructions. You may need to change it more often if you live in a dusty environment. Your usage rate will also determine how often you should change the filter.
Blocked or Dirty Condenser
The outside condenser is essential for proper AC function. A blocked or dirty condenser unit can prevent your AC from starting and cause your air conditioner to blow out warm air because it cannot cool properly.
Critical Maintenance
Professional AC maintenance ensures your outdoor condenser and all components are clean and working. Condensers can become clogged with twigs, leaves, and other debris, preventing normal function. Removing the condenser blockages and performing a thorough physical cleaning is the only way to restore normal function. You should schedule AC maintenance annually, usually before turning your unit on for the first time during warm weather. We’ll handle the cleaning chores and check your air conditioner for safe and normal function.
Low Refrigerant
Air conditioners cycle refrigerant between liquid and gas states, so a low level should never occur outside of a leak. Low refrigerant levels can lead to compressor failure, and the AC will not turn on. Never operate your AC if you know the refrigerant levels are low. Even mild to moderate reductions can overtax your system, which could lead to premature failure.
Faulty Capacitors
Capacitors are small components that send a burst of electricity to start the compressor. They can last up to 20 years but may fail prematurely under certain conditions. Without a working capacitor, your AC will not operate. Some AC systems have multiple capacitors, so checking them for electrical continuity is essential.
Tripped Safety Switches
Most air conditioners have at least two safety switches. These switches prevent the air conditioner from operating unsafely. The high-pressure switch may trip if the system’s pressure levels increase too much, and the low-pressure switch stops the unit from running when the pressure decreases too much.
Although you can turn the switch back on, we do not recommend it because it does not fix the problem. Our expert HVAC technicians will check your system to find the cause of the switch issue. We will work to restore the function promptly.
Our professional repair services ensure we will diagnose your air conditioner, inform you of the repair issues, and provide up-front pricing. We will also help you decide whether it is time to replace your old air conditioner or have us repair it.
Professional Air Conditioner Repair in Monterey Park
Air conditioners can last 15 to 20 years but require proper installation, maintenance, and repairs. Monkey Wrench Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric is a full-service HVAC, plumbing, and electrical company located in Monterey Park, CA. Our expert technicians, plumbers, and electricians provide installation, maintenance, and repair services for residential and commercial customers.
We also provide indoor air quality services, ductwork cleaning, and surge protection. We are an eco-friendly company that prioritizes our customers, and we stand behind our work 100%. Our team services all air conditioner makes and models. We have been serving our neighbors since 2007 and are proud of our many five-star customer reviews.
We believe in offering fair prices for our HVAC services, and we provide specials on our website to save you money. Should you need a new air conditioner, we offer no-hassle financing on approved credit, making AC replacement more affordable.
Call our HVAC technicians at Monkey Wrench Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric today if your AC will not come on!
