Spring has officially arrived in Central Indiana. The clocks have sprung forward, the days are getting longer, and lawnmowers are starting to hum. It won’t be long if you haven’t turned on your air conditioning, but what if it doesn’t kick on? It may be time to schedule air conditioning repairs with a trusted local expert. But before you make a service call, you can take a few steps to prep your system and troubleshoot common problems with our quick-start guide to staying cool this spring.
Before You Power On: 3 Simple AC Prep Tips
Before you flip the switch on your home’s central air conditioning for the first time, here are a few simple things you can do to make sure your system is ready to go.
- Clear the Outdoor Unit
Over the winter, it’s common for leaves, branches, and debris to collect around your outdoor AC condenser. Take a few minutes to clear the area and ensure at least 2 feet of open space around the unit to help prevent airflow issues and improve overall performance. If you cover your outdoor unit for the winter, remove it before startup. Running your system with a cover in place can severely restrict airflow and damage components.
- Replace the Air Filter
Unless you’ve already done it this month, it’s always a good time to switch out your equipment’s air filter. A dirty filter can choke your system and reduce efficiency. Swapping it out for a fresh and clean air filter is a quick fix that supports better airflow and can help avoid frozen coils or early breakdowns.
- Check Your Thermostat
It sounds obvious, but it’s often overlooked: Make sure your thermostat is set to “Cool,” and the temperature is set below the current room temperature. If your thermostat runs on batteries, consider replacing them now to be safe.
DIY Troubleshooting: Here’s Why Your AC Might Not Be Kicking On
Your AC might not kick on even after taking proactive and precautionary steps. Here are some of the most common culprits and what you might be able to do about them before reaching out to local professionals.
Inspect Circuit Breakers
Head to your electrical panel and look for a tripped breaker labeled “AC” or “Cool.” Flip it entirely off and then back on to reset. It could point to a more significant electrical issue if it trips again. If so, it’s time to call the pros.
Thermostat Glitches
Even “smart” thermostats can have hiccups. If your screen is blank or unresponsive, check or replace the batteries. Double-check the schedule settings for programmable thermostats to ensure they are calling for cool air. Sometimes, a factory reset can get things back on track.
Tripped Safety Switches
Many modern HVAC systems include safety features to prevent damage. For example, if your condensate drain pan is full, a float switch may shut off your system automatically. Try checking the area around your indoor air handler for moisture. If the drain line is clogged, gently use a wet/dry vacuum to remove blockages from the outdoor drain outlet.
Clogged Drain Lines
Algae, dirt, and dust can build up in your condensate line, preventing your AC from running. Pouring a bit of diluted vinegar down the line, if it’s accessible, can help break up gunk and keep things flowing. Be cautious, though—if you’re unsure where the line is or how to access it, this is a great time to call for AC repair.
Frozen Evaporator Coils
If you notice ice on your indoor unit or warm air blowing from the vents, your evaporator coil could be frozen. Low refrigerant, poor airflow, or a dirty filter are often among the culprits to blame. Turn your system off and switch the fan to “On” to help thaw the coil. Don’t try to chip off the ice, which could damage the system. If freezing recurs, professional service is a must.
Faulty Capacitor or Motor
Hear a humming sound, but nothing’s moving? You might have a failing motor or capacitor, which are prevalent causes of an AC unit not turning on. You probably don’t want to risk DIY work on complex electrical components, so it’s best to trust a trained technician to diagnose or replace them.
AC Not Turning On? Precision Comfort Systems Can Help
If you’ve followed all the recommendations and your air conditioner is still not working, don’t sweat it—literally.
Precision Comfort Systems is the go-to source for AC repairs across Greater Indianapolis’ north side. Our highly trained and certified technicians specialize in AC repair, and we’re proud to serve local homeowners across Zionsville, Carmel, Westfield, Noblesville, Fishers, the rest of Hamilton County, and the surrounding area.
We know how frustrating it is when your AC stops working, especially when that first warm day finally hits. Precision specialists will quickly diagnose what’s going wrong and provide honest, expert recommendations. We can often make same-day repairs to make your home cool and comfortable again.
Don’t get left in the heat this spring. Call Precision Comfort Systems at (317) 867-2665 for emergency AC repairs, or reach out online to schedule your seasonal tune-up today.