Imagine coming home from a long day’s work on a 90-degree day with only one thing on your mind – relaxing in the comforts of your air-conditioned home. But instead of being greeted by a blast of cold air as you walk in the front door, you’re instead greeted by an entire AC system that won’t turn on.

An AC unit that won’t turn on and produce cool air can create serious problems, especially during the very hot summer months. The good news is that there are a few things that you can do to fix the problem. In our most recent blog, the HVAC technicians at Rusk Heating & Cooling discuss some common reasons why your AC might not be working and what to do to repair it.

For all of your air conditioning repair, maintenance and installation needs, don’t hesitate to contact the NATE-certified air conditioner technicians at Rusk for accurate and reliable services.

Reasons Your Air Conditioner Won’t Turn On

Here are a few reasons why your Covington, Kentucky or Cincinnati area air conditioning system might not be turning on.

Your thermostat isn’t set correctly

This may seem like a no-brainer, but make sure your thermostat is set to COOL and that the temperature is set to below the current temperature. This will help your AC unit hit the temperature that you want.

Your thermostat is not working properly

A malfunctioning thermostat can also be the reason for no cooling. Turn off the power to your AC unit, and check your thermostat. Unscrew the wire from the Y terminal, then turn the power back on. Hold the wire by the insulation and touch it to the R terminal for about two minutes. If this causes your compressor to turn on, then you have a faulty thermostat. If you try all of these fixes and your AC still does not turn on, contact the specialists of Rusk Heating & Cooling. 

Problem with the main electrical panel

Make sure to check your home’s main electrical panel and any other panels for a tripped circuit breaker or a blown fuse. To fix this, try resetting the tripped breaker or replacing the blown fuse. Reset the circuit breaker only once for safety.

Your HVAC system’s power switch is turned off

Check that your HVAC system’s power switch is turned on and that your outdoor condenser power switch hasn’t been turned to the off position.

A clogged air filter

When an air conditioner won’t turn on, it can be caused by something as simple as a clogged HVAC filter. A clogged or dirty filter can cause your AC unit to turn off or freeze up. It’s important to regularly replace your air conditioner system’s air filters, typically about every three months or in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.

AC drain pan is full

The drain pan is typically located in the indoor portion of your air conditioning system. If the drain pan is clogged or full, it can trigger a float switch to prevent your air conditioner from turning on.

Contact Rusk for AC Repair Services

You can rely on our team of factory-trained professionals to provide prompt, expert service for your home’s air conditioning system!

Rusk Heating & Cooling is an air conditioning company that is centrally located just beneath the Brent Spence Bridge. We are minutes from anywhere in the Greater Covington and Northern Kentucky surrounding areas. Contact us for 24-hour emergency repairs or to book an appointment for reliable maintenance and replacement and installation services.