Are you one of the 60% of households with a central outdoor AC unit? If so, you know how critical these units are when the temperatures rise, and you know how frustrating it is when they won’t work.
Your unit may just need a simple tweak — or a repair that requires more technical expertise. Read on to learn the reasons why your outside Fort Walton Beach AC unit won’t turn on!
Change the Thermostat Setting
An outdoor unit thermostat may not be set properly. Make sure that your thermostat is on the cool setting, and turn down the temperature a few degrees. This should trigger the system to start working.
If it doesn’t, you should try replacing the batteries. If that doesn’t work, you may have a wiring issue that needs professional expertise to fix.
Replace a Dirty Air Filter
A dirty air filter could be the culprit. Dirt, dust, and debris will prevent air from moving through the filter. And this could result in your system shutting off.
Fortunately, this is an easy fix. Determine the right type of filter, and change it every few months depending on household size and allergy needs.
Look at the Electrical Switch Outside
Is the AC unit off? Go outside to look at the outdoor AC unit component. You should see an electrical switch — and it should be on.
Since this is an emergency shut-off switch, someone may have inadvertently turned it off. There may be a reset button on the exterior unit, too, that you can press. Make sure to try both of these options to power up your unit.
Look at the Indoor Power Switch
Your AC unit has multiple power sources that might not be turned on. Besides the outdoor switch, there should be one near the air handler inside your home.
Make sure it’s turned on. If it and the outside switch are both on but your unit won’t work, get professional technicians to solve the problem.
Check the Circuit Breaker
Is a circuit tripped? Head to your utility area to check to see if any circuits have tripped to prevent overheating. Simply reset the circuit to see if your unit starts running.
You may have blown a fuse in your circuit breaker box. Replace it, and you can solve the issue of an air conditioner not turning on!
Assess the Condensate Drain
A functional outdoor AC unit will create condensation that drains out of the system. On hot and humid days, however, you may find your condensate line is clogged with grime. And a clog may trigger a switch to turn off your AC unit.
You can fix the issue by doing some cleaning. First, turn off your AC unit. Then use a wet-dry vacuum to remove the content clogging your line.
Keep Your Outside AC Running
Maintaining a functional outside AC unit is critical if you want to stay comfortable during the hottest months of the year. When your unit isn’t working, check for a tripped breaker or dirty air filter. And see if the indoor and outdoor power switches are on.
When you’re ready to get your Fort Walton Beach AC unit running smoothly, contact us, and we can help!
