10 Reasons Why Your Ducted Air Conditioner Has Stopped Working

There is nothing more frustrating than an air conditioner that won’t work. Knowing what the problem is can save you a lot of work. By the time you have to search a term like “AC repair Glendale AZ” to find a workman, it is because you’ve exhausted all your diagnostic and DIY options.  To help you, we have made a list of the top things to look out for and check on when your AC has stopped working. But if you are not a do-it-yourselfer, it may be a good time to call a local AC repair specialist anyway.

To help you, we have made a list of the top things to look out for and check on when your AC has stopped working. But if you are not a do-it-yourselfer, it may be a good time to call a local AC repair specialist.

10 Common Reasons

Below you can check out the most common reasons for air conditioning repairs. Finding the problem means you’ll get to a solution much faster!

The Thermostat Is Malfunctioning

See if the thermostat display is lit, and check the batteries. If the display is off, it cannot tell the AC to turn on. 

If the batteries seem to be in good condition, check the thermostat. If the AC is not turning on, switch the thermostat off and look at all of the AC’s components. 

Look for any corrosion or debris, and keep an eye out for a broken fuse. You can also check loose wires or screws. One of these may be the culprit! 

Air Filters Are Clogged

The AC can’t function if the air filters are clogged up or dirty. Cleaning the AC filters is vital! The filters allow air to circulate, and dirt can easily block the airflow.

Dirty filters may even freeze the outdoor AC unit, and then your AC will not turn on. If this is the case, you can clean the filters or call in a professional. Once you’ve cleaned the filters, let them dry before turning the AC back on again.

Refrigerant Shortage

The refrigerant is responsible for providing cool air, and it is a fluid found in the coils of the AC. If it is a refrigerant shortage, it is most likely due to a leak – cracks tend to build up over time in the coil, and this causes a leak.

This can be avoided through regular maintenance. If this is the problem, you will need to get a professional to come in and resolve it.

The Capacitor Has Failed

The capacitor is vital to the system and is connected to the circuit of the motor. Its job is to give the motor a push to start. It then disconnects from the motor’s circuit when it gets to a certain speed.

The capacitor may have died due to overheating, power fluctuations, or just because it is old. All you need to do is call an electrician, they will replace the capacitor, and your AC will be up and running.

The Switch

Check the on/off switch. This should be the first thing you check. There’s a chance that the AC has been switched off. Then turn it back on, and you are good to go!

Dormancy Problem

Check the fan of your AC. If it won’t turn on, it is likely a dormancy issue. This usually happens after the winter months when the AC has been standing still for a long time, and there may be some built-up dirt. An expert can quickly resolve this issue for you.

The Circuit Breaker Tripped

Take a look at the circuit breaker. If it has tripped, then the AC won’t be able to turn on. It may have tripped due to power surges or because you used a high voltage appliance.

Turn the air conditioner circuit breaker off and give it a few minutes before putting it back on again.

Dirty Condenser

If not properly maintained, the condenser can get very dirty. A dirty condenser will draw too much current and trip the circuit breaker. You will need to get it professionally cleaned.

Motor Is Damaged

Listen out for grinding sounds – it is a clear indicator that the motor is malfunctioning. Over time, the oil in the motor seeps out, and without oil, it can’t work correctly. This may mean replacing the motor, but you may need a whole new HVAC system in some cases.

The Drain Pan Is Clogged

The drain pan can easily get clogged up if not cleaned or maintained. There are two drain pans, and when both get clogged, the float switch gets triggered, turning the AC off.

The AC will only turn back on once the pans have been cleaned and the switch is turned back on.

Final Thoughts

The best way to avoid any problems is to have regular maintenance done. This way, you can catch problems early on and won’t struggle too much with your AC. But no matter the problem, there is always a good solution!

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