When your AC stops providing comfort to your home and the discomfort kicks in—especially right in the middle of the hottest summer days—a broken Air Conditioner system can ruin your day. But before you go into panic mode, remember that most air conditioning problems are simple fixes.
Here’s a list of the most common reasons why your air conditioning unit is not working and what you can do to fix it.
1. Thermostat Issues
It is possible that your thermostat is preventing your air conditioning unit from functioning. If your thermostat has dead batteries, is set incorrectly, or the calibration is incorrect, the air conditioning unit may not turn on. Always check:Is it set to “Cool” mode?Is it set to “Auto”?Are the batteries good?Is the setting below room temperature?A quick fix in this area can often solve your air conditioning problem.
2. Clogged Air Filters
Dirty filters can restrict airflow. If your AC unit is running but does not cool, it could be due to a clogged air filter. A clogged air filter can cause your system to work harder, and it may even frozen evaporator coils. Change your air filters every 1—3 months.
3. Tripped Breaker or Blown Fuse
Oftentimes the issue is electrical, so check your home’s breaker panel and see if the AC breaker has tripped. If it has tripped, flip the breaker switch back on. If it continues to trip, call a licensed technician. In the meantime, do not continue to reset the breaker as it could be representative of a continual issue.
4. Dirty or Frozen Coils
Dirty evaporator or condenser coils can prohibit your air conditioner from working. Anytime the system cannot transfer heat, it may operate efficiently or at all. Cleanliness of your coils decreases the likelihood of breakdowns.
5. Low Refrigerant Levels
Low refrigerant is one of the more common causes of your air conditioner not working. This may result from a leak or poor installation. Signs of low refrigerant may include:
- Warm air from vents
- Hissing sounds
- Ice buildup on coils
Low refrigerant will need to be repaired by a professional. It cannot simply be “topped off.”
6. Duct Leaks or Blockages
The cool air could be leaking before it reaches your room. If your AC is on but the air is barely trickling out, duct leaks or ducts being blocked could be causing the issue. Duct inspections are good for identifying the problems.
7. Non-Functional Compressor
A compressor is the heart of your AC system. If the compressor fails then your home will not be cooled down. Symptoms of a broken compressor include: Strange noisesThe AC is tripping the breakerWarm air is coming when the AC is turning on This will typically need to be completely replaced.
8. Capacitors and Contactors that are Defective
Capacitors and contractors turn the AC system on and off. If a capacitor or contractor is worn out and fails then it won’t work or could randomly shut off. If these parts need to be replaced you should have a technician replace them.
9. Thermostat wiring problems
If the thermostat wiring is loose or corroded, it will cut off communication between the controller and the unit. This can confuse the system and cause it to stop working completely. The thermostat is a small part, but it can be troublesome when broken.
10. Outside Debris Around Outside Unit
If you have debris, leaves or a lot of grass around the outdoor condenser unit, it has the potential to lower the efficiency. The system needs at least a two-foot clearance area for proper functioning. Keep it clean and clear.
11. Drain line blockage
The AC system has a condensate drain line that can clog with dirt or algae. The clogged line can not only shut the system down completely, but you may notice water pooling around the unit or possibly a musty smell.. You will want to flush or clean that line when you can.
What To Do When Your Air Conditioner Not Work
Before you call any HVAC service, take the time to follow this checklist: Check the supplier thermostat Check the air filtersCheck the breaker panel Check the vents and airflow Check the area around the outdoor unit If it does not work after this, please call a licensed technician.
How GreenWorks AC Can Help
Don’t sweat it, if your air conditioner not working – GreenWorks AC is your trusted HVAC partner throughout Florida. We offer:
- 24/7 emergency AC repair
- Full AC installation and maintenance
- Energy efficient options
- Robotic duct cleaning
- Air quality testing
- Honest estimates and fair pricing
GreenWorks AC has over a decade of experience and is your trusted choice for reliable HVAC repair and service throughout Florida. Our certified technicians diagnose and repair problems quickly, getting your air conditioning back to work with as little downtime as possible.
Book a Service Now
Visit greenworksac.com to book a service, request a free quote or speak to our helpful customer service team. Whether it’s a faulty thermostat, refrigerant leak or dirty ducts We have you covered. Don’t let the heat beat you – GreenWorks AC is there when your air conditioning is not working.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why did my air conditioning (AC) suddenly stop working?
It is likely that the issue with your AC is due to a tripped circuit breaker, dirty filter, or faulty thermostat. Before calling a technician, check these things first.
2. How do I know if my AC compressor is broken?
Some signs that your compressor is broken are loud noises, warm air, or the unit won’t start at all. A broken compressor typically needs to be replaced by a technician.
3. Can low refrigerant cause AC not to work?
Absolutely! Low refrigerant leads to improper cooling and can damage both the compressor and ac system. If refrigerant is found to be low, there is typically a leak that needs to be repaired before it can be recharged.
4. Should I repair or replace my AC?
If your AC unit is older than 10 to 15 years or the repair costs are high, then the cost to replace the AC would be the best option. Also, newer units would have drastically improved energy efficiencies.
5. What services does GreenWorks AC provide?
GreenWorks AC provides emergency repairs, AC installations, routine maintenance, robotic duct cleaning, and indoor air quality testing across Florida.