In the sweltering summer heat, having reliable air conditioning is not only a matter of comfort and convenience, but one of safety as well. Every year, more than 5 million people worldwide die due to extreme heat.

Having your HVAC system go out abruptly is scary. It can be difficult to know what steps to take if this happens to you.

There are many different air conditioner problems that can cause your system to not kick on. Once you understand what these are, you can better determine how to address them. Keep reading to find out what these HVAC issues are and what you can do about them.

Tripped Circuit Breaker

One of the main reasons you might find yourself with a dead air conditioner is a tripped circuit breaker. This often happens when the circuit is overloaded with power.

Fortunately, this is an easy fix. Check your fuse box to see if the breaker is tripped. Flip it completely off and back on to reset.

Note that damaged wiring also can cause short circuits, but this is a problem that will not resolve on its own. If the breaker continues to trip, consider hiring a professional to check the wiring to your HVAC system.

Thermostat Problems

A faulty thermostat is another common culprit of air conditioner problems. If the device is failing to send the right signals to your AC, it can show the desired temperature without your unit kicking on.

If you recently installed a smart thermostat, this could be the issue. Most of these require unique electrical configurations that could be incorrectly wired. A professional installer can check to see if this is what’s causing problems.

Dirty Air Filter

Most of the time, a dirty air filter will simply dissipate the amount of air your AC is pushing through the system. If it is clogged enough, though, the restriction of airflow can cause your evaporator coils to freeze up. (Note that dirty filters make your system work much harder than it needs, which can trigger increased wear and tear over time.)

You should change your air filter every few months, and even more frequently if you live in an area with a lot of dust or pollen in the air. If your compressor coils are frozen, wait for them to defrost before turning your AC back on.

Mechanical Air Conditioner Problems

There are myriad mechanical problems that can cause your air conditioner to fail to turn on. These range from minor component failures to major system problems.

Unfortunately, most people without experience in AC repair will not be able to diagnose these. A licensed technician can assess the issue and suggest repairs.

Find an HVAC Company Near You

Now that you know what to do when encountering air conditioner problems, you can take the necessary steps to address the issue. With a little patience and attention to detail, you can get your system back up and running as soon as possible.

Since 1978, Cliffs Air Conditioning and Heating has provided residential and light commercial HVAC services. This includes new installation, replacement, repair, and maintenance plans. Reach out to us today to schedule a visit.