Many of us have been there. You go to start up your cooling system for the season, and you’re left wondering, “Why is my air conditioner not turning on?”

While this can feel very frustrating (especially on a hot day!), there are a few DIY steps you can take to troubleshoot the issue at home. So, before you call an air conditioner repair specialist, try the following to see if you can get your AC unit back up and running:

1. Look at Your Thermostat
   Your air conditioner may not be turning on if your thermostat is set to “heat” rather than “cool”. If it is set to heat, it simply won’t turn on. Turn your thermostat to cool and lower the temperature by at least 5 degrees to see if your unit will turn on.
2. Check the Breaker
   If the circuit breaker has been tripped, your air conditioning unit will not turn on. Check the panel and reset the breaker, making sure to flip the breaker all the way to the “off” position and returning it to “on”.
3. Check the Unit’s Off/On Switch
   Many air conditioners have a dedicated shut-off switch near the outside portion of the unit. Make sure that this switch is in the “on” position. There’s also a switch located at the indoor portion of the unit, which often looks like a light switch. Make sure this switch is also in the “on” position.
4. Replace the Air Filter
   If you’re wondering, “Why is my air conditioner not turning on?”, think about the last time you changed your air filter. A dirty air filter can block air from return to your AC unit, thereby reducing the air flow over the evaporator coil and causing it to ice over. This freezing can shut off the air conditioner’s compressor so it does not become damaged.
5. Check the Condensate Drain Line
   The line that drains condensation from your air conditioner can become clogged with algae blockages and other debris. This can trip a safety switch that turns off your AC altogether. Use a wet/dry vacuum to suck out any obstructions that may have formed and attempt to turn your system on again.

Still find yourself asking, “Why is my air conditioner not turning on”? Our professional technicians can help. Evam Canada offers comprehensive AC maintenance and repair services to keep your air conditioner working like it should. If you need help troubleshooting your air conditioner problems,  get in touch with us today!