Check the Circuit Breaker Panel

Before we get to the air conditioner, let’s make sure the power source is there. Head to your home’s electrical panel, usually in the laundry room, garage, or utility room. This panel controls the electricity supply to all of the circuits (or rooms) in your building. Check the circuit breaker panel to see if the switch for the circuit breaker is in the "off" position. Reset the switch by flipping it back to the on position.

When you head back to the air conditioner, also make sure the unit’s power switches are on. Most system’s have two power switches: one for the indoor unit and one for the outdoor unit.

Have You Tried Turning It Off and On Again?

Power off the air conditioner and unplug it if you can, then plug it back in and turn the unit on to see if it works now. This suggestion has become somewhat of a joke, but the best part of the joke is that this often works! Don’t worry if it does not. We have some other tricks up our sleeves.

Check the Thermostat

Read your air conditioner’s thermostat to make sure it is on the "cool" setting and the degree is set to a level BELOW the current room temperature. While you are at it, check to see if the fan setting is on "auto" or "on." When it is on the "auto" setting, the fan will only run when the air conditioner is cooling air. When it is on the "on" setting, the fan will run continuously.

If there is nothing showing up on the thermostat, or if it won’t allow you to adjust the temperature or settings, then it might be time to change its batteries or replace the thermostat completely.

Replace Clogged Air Filters

An air filter can only hold so much dust and debris before it clogs up. A dirty air filter can contaminate the air and overheat the air conditioner. After some time, a clogged air filter can completely block air flow and prevent the air conditioner from working. Replace the air filters at least once every three months.

Schedule an AC Repair

Is the air conditioner still not turning on? A technician might have to take a look. There could be a problem with one of the inner components. Call Rooter Hero to schedule an AC repair today.