Air conditioners are an essential part of life in East Texas. When your air conditioner isn’t working properly, it can put your life on hold. If you notice your AC not turning on when it’s set to cool, there are a couple of common causes. Below, we’ll go into some common issues that can prevent your AC unit from functioning properly. We’ll also provide some troubleshooting tips you can use to get it back up and running.
If troubleshooting doesn’t solve the problem, contact the East Texas air conditioning professionals at Lex East. We understand how important it is to be comfortable in your home or business. Our skilled HVAC technicians are ready to diagnose and resolve any issues plaguing your AC system. Whether your AC is suddenly not working or it frequently breaks down, we’re here to offer solutions.
Don’t let AC troubles ruin your day. Call Lex Air East Texas at 903-833-9510 to schedule repairs with us or to learn more about our services.
Is Your AC Unit Not Turning On?
If your air conditioning unit is not turning on, there are a lot of steps you can take to get it running again. If these steps aren’t enough to fix the issue, contact a professional air conditioning repair company in Tyler, like Lex Air East Texas.
We are proud to provide the residents of Tyler, TX, with professional HVAC interventions. Our technicians help property owners keep their homes and offices cool and comfortable for themselves and other occupants.
Why Is My AC Not Working?
There are a lot of reasons why your AC isn’t working. These can include malfunctioning electrical components, clogged air ducts and filters, frozen condenser coils, and more. Proper diagnosis by a qualified HVAC technician is necessary to determine the exact cause. An experienced technician can also implement the appropriate solution to get your AC to blow cold air.
Common Reasons Why Your AC Won’t Turn On
There are a variety of reasons why your air conditioning system isn’t turning on. These include circuit breaker problems, thermostat problems, air filter problems, and condenser problems. By familiarizing yourself with these common issues, you can take proactive steps to ensure your AC runs smoothly and efficiently.
Circuit Breaker Problems
If your AC suddenly stops working, one common culprit could be a tripped circuit breaker. Circuit breakers are designed to protect your home’s electrical system from overload. If the AC unit draws too much power or there’s a short circuit, the breaker will trip, cutting off power to the unit. Power surges in your area or within your home’s electrical system could cause your circuit breaker to trip or damage your home’s electrical panel.
Thermostat Problems
Another reason your AC system may be malfunctioning is because of your thermostat. If the thermostat is not set correctly or is malfunctioning, it can prevent the AC from turning on. If the thermostat seems to be working, but your air conditioner won’t kick on and bring the room temperature down to your desired temperature, then there might be a problem with another part of your AC.
Air Filter Problems
A dirty air filter is another common reason for AC problems. When the air filter becomes clogged with dust, dirt, and other debris, it restricts airflow to the AC unit, causing it to work harder and potentially overheat. This could cause your HVAC system to shut down as a safety measure.
Condenser Problems
The condenser unit, which is the part of your air conditioner that’s located outside your home, plays a crucial role in the cooling process and allows your air conditioner to release heat. If the condenser is obstructed or malfunctioning, it can prevent the AC from turning on or cooling effectively.
Debris such as leaves, grass clippings, or other outdoor debris can block the condenser coils or the fan blades, preventing the condenser from functioning properly.
Air Conditioner Troubleshooting Tips
If you can’t get your AC unit to turn on, there are a number of things you can do to help solve the issue without the help of an HVAC professional. Below are some troubleshooting tips you can use to get your AC working properly again.
However, if these troubleshooting tips don’t fix the problem, call the experienced air conditioning technicians at Lex East. We can diagnose the issue and implement solutions to help get your air conditioner up and running once again.
Check the Air Filter
One of the first things you should do is check your air filters. A dirty or clogged air filter can restrict airflow, reducing the efficiency of your AC system and potentially causing it to malfunction. Inspect your air filters and replace any dirty air filters in your home. This can ensure proper airflow to your air conditioner and improve the overall performance of your AC unit.
Check the Thermostat
You should also verify that you’ve set your thermostat correctly and that it’s functioning properly. Ensure you’ve set it to “cool” mode and that you’ve set the temperature lower than the current room temperature. If your thermostat runs on batteries, replace them to ensure accurate temperature readings and proper functioning.
Additionally, clean any dust or debris that may have accumulated around the thermostat and ensure it’s level on the wall for accurate temperature sensing. If these troubleshooting tips don’t help, contact our Tyler thermostat repair professionals.
Check the Outdoor Shutoff Switch
Another essential step you should take is to check the indoor and outdoor emergency shutoff switches. These switches are typically located near the indoor air handler and outdoor condenser unit. Ensure that both switches are in the “on” position.
Sometimes, these switches can accidentally get turned off, preventing the AC from turning on. If the switches are already in the “on” position, try toggling them off and then back on to reset the system.
Check the Indoor Power Switch
Additionally, be sure to check to make sure that the power switch for your air conditioner is turned on. First, ensure that the power switch for your air conditioner is turned on. This switch is typically located near the indoor air handler unit. Sometimes, the power supply can be accidentally switched off, preventing the AC from turning on. If the power switch is already on, try toggling it off and then back on to reset the system.
Check the Drain Line
Another important troubleshooting step is to check the drain line for any blockages or obstructions. A clogged drain line can prevent the AC from functioning properly and may cause your drain pan to fill up with water, which can cause damage to your home.
Inspect the drain line for algae buildup, debris, or other blockages and clear them if necessary. Additionally, consider pouring a mixture of vinegar and water down the condensate drain line to prevent algae growth and keep it clear.
Push the Reset Button
Many air conditioning units are equipped with a reset button that can help troubleshoot minor issues. Locate the reset button, which you’ll typically find on the outdoor condenser unit. Press the reset button once to see if it resolves the problem.
Check for Ice Buildup
If your air conditioner is not cooling properly, check for ice buildup on the evaporator coils. Ice formation can occur due to restricted airflow, low refrigerant levels, or other issues. Turn off the AC and let the ice thaw completely before attempting to restart it. Once thawed, inspect the air filter, vents, and ductwork for obstructions that may be restricting airflow.
Check for Clogs in the Condensate Drain
You should also check for clogs in your condensate drain pan. If the drain line becomes clogged with dirt, algae, or debris, it can cause excess water to collect in the drain pan, which can overflow and cause water damage.
Inspect the condensate drain line for clogs and clear them using a wet/dry vacuum or a specialized drain cleaning solution. Regular maintenance of the condensate drain can prevent clogs and ensure the efficient operation of your AC unit.
FAQs
Why Is the Outside AC Unit Not Turning on But the Inside Is?
If the outside AC unit is not turning on while the inside unit is running, it could indicate several possible issues. Your outdoor AC unit may be malfunctioning as a result of electrical problems, a faulty capacitor, or a tripped breaker.
Additionally, the outside unit’s power supply or wiring may be damaged or disconnected. Be sure to inspect the outdoor unit for any visible signs of damage or obstruction and to check your circuit breaker to see if the breaker for your outdoor air conditioner unit has been tripped.
If troubleshooting steps don’t resolve the problem, it’s advisable to contact a professional HVAC technician for further diagnosis and repair. They can inspect your outdoor unit’s electrical connections, diagnose the issue, and resolve any problems they find with your outdoor unit.
Why Is My Central AC Running But Not Blowing Air?
If your central AC is running but not blowing air, several potential issues could be causing this problem. One common reason is a clogged air filter, which restricts airflow and reduces the system’s efficiency.
Another possibility is a malfunctioning blower motor or capacitor, which may need repair or replacement. Additionally, ductwork issues such as leaks or blockages could prevent air from circulating properly. It’s important to address these issues promptly to ensure your AC operates efficiently and to prevent further damage to the system.
Why Is My AC Running But Not Cooling?
If your AC is running but not cooling, several factors could be contributing to the issue, including issues with your condenser unit. Common condenser issues like dirty coils or malfunctioning fans can hinder your AC unit’s ability to cool air, preventing it from lowering the temperature in your home.
Inspect your outdoor condenser for refrigerant leaks and any visible damage, and be sure the condenser unit is clean and free of obstructions. If problems persist, consult with a professional HVAC technician for further diagnosis and repair.
Why Is the Thermostat Set to Cool But the AC Is Not Turning On?
If the thermostat is set to cool but the AC is not turning on, it could be experiencing a few potential issues. Be sure that your thermostat is set to a temperature lower than the current room temperature and is functioning correctly. Check the batteries if applicable and ensure the thermostat is level and free from dust or debris.
If the thermostat is set correctly, you may be dealing with a tripped circuit breaker, a malfunctioning compressor, or issues with the wiring or electrical connections. It’s essential to troubleshoot these issues or consult a professional HVAC technician for further diagnosis and repair.
Why Does My AC Keep Turning Off?
If your AC keeps turning off repeatedly, it may indicate various underlying issues. One common reason is a dirty or clogged air filter, which restricts airflow and causes the system to overheat, triggering automatic shutdowns.
Low refrigerant levels, malfunctioning components like the compressor or thermostat, or electrical issues such as tripped circuit breakers could also be causing frequent shutdowns. Regular maintenance, including cleaning or replacing air filters, checking refrigerant levels, and inspecting electrical components, can help prevent these issues and ensure uninterrupted operation of your AC system.
Call Lex Air East Texas for Air Conditioner Repair Services in Tyler, TX
If your air conditioner has you fending for yourself against the Texas heat, don’t sweat it–call Lex Air East Texas. Our HVAC technicians are proud to provide the residents of Tyler, TX, and beyond with expert air conditioning repair, replacement, installation, and maintenance services. We provide repairs for a variety of different kinds of AC units, ensuring that we can restore comfort to your home regardless of the type of cooling system you currently have. Ready to return to comfort? Call 903-833-9510 or contact us through our website to schedule repairs with Lex East today!
