When summer temperatures climb in Edmonton, the last thing anyone wants is for their air conditioner to stop working. Unfortunately, a non-responsive AC unit is a common issue during heat waves. Many homeowners find themselves reaching for the thermostat, only to discover that the system will not turn on at all. This can be frustrating, especially when the heat feels relentless and relief is nowhere in sight.
Getting to the bottom of why your air conditioner will not start is important, not just for comfort but to prevent further damage to the system. A small issue ignored during a heat wave can quickly lead to bigger, more expensive problems. Recognizing warning signs and taking quick action can make a significant difference. Below are some of the most frequent reasons an air conditioner might fail to start, along with simple checks you can make before calling in our technicians.
Common Reasons Your Air Conditioner Won’t Turn On
There are several causes that can keep an AC unit from starting properly. Understanding these can help you respond faster and avoid discomfort during Edmonton’s warmer months.
– No Power Supply: One of the most basic yet overlooked causes is a lack of power. If the AC system is not getting electricity, it will not start. This could be due to a blown fuse, a tripped breaker, or a loose connection.
– Thermostat Problems: If the thermostat is not set correctly or is not working, your air conditioner will not get the signal to turn on. Sometimes the batteries are dead, or the temperature may be set too high to activate cooling.
– Dirty or Blocked Filters: Filters filled with dirt block airflow, making it hard for the system to start and cool effectively. In some cases, if the filter is clogged enough, it can even prevent the unit from turning on altogether.
– Refrigerant Leaks: Low refrigerant levels mean the system cannot absorb heat properly. If there is a leak, the AC may automatically stop operating to avoid overworking the compressor.
– Tripped Circuit Breaker: Overuse during high-demand times can cause the breaker to trip. If you have been using multiple large appliances at once, this could be why the system is not responding.
During an unusually hot week in Edmonton last year, one homeowner found their AC would not start after returning from work. It turned out the circuit breaker had tripped due to a power surge earlier that day. After a simple reset and a few adjustments from our technicians, the system was back up and running.
Identifying what caused the AC to stop responding is the first real step toward a fix. Whether it is related to power, airflow, refrigerant, or commands from the thermostat, each of these problems can be resolved with the right approach.
Immediate Steps to Take
Before scheduling an inspection, try a few basic checks. These steps are safe for homeowners and might save you time on the phone.
1. Reset the Thermostat: Set the temperature several degrees lower than the current room temperature. Also, make sure the cooling mode is active.
2. Inspect the Power Connections: Check the breaker box and the outdoor disconnect switch. Reset any switches that have tripped.
3. Check the Filter: Pull out the filter and inspect it for visible dust buildup. If it has been a few months since it was changed or cleaned, it is time to replace it.
4. Give It a Few Minutes After Reset: Some systems have built-in delays. After you make adjustments, wait about five to ten minutes to see if the unit starts.
If the AC still does not kick in, it is likely time to call our professionals. A faulty capacitor, burned-out motor, or broken compressor will not fix itself and requires specialised attention from our trained technicians. Acting quickly prevents further damage and helps keep your home cool while the heat continues outside.
When to Call Our Professionals
If the first steps have not worked, the problem likely runs deeper. Some AC issues cannot be solved by just flipping a switch or replacing a filter. Situations involving internal component failures, such as a damaged capacitor, faulty compressor, or wiring problem, require hands-on diagnosis.
You should also call our technicians if the system starts but shuts down again soon after, or if you notice burning smells, grinding noises, or water pooling around the unit. These are signs that something is either failing or close to complete failure. Delaying repairs in these cases can result in permanent system damage and higher repair costs.
Our professionals arrive equipped with specialised tools to perform a full inspection and pinpoint the source of the issue. Whether the compressor is at fault or a wiring fault is disrupting system communication, our technicians work to identify and resolve the root cause. They also check surrounding components to help prevent future problems under the same load conditions. A full-system inspection is especially helpful during long Edmonton heat waves when systems are running more frequently than usual.
Preventative Measures to Keep Your AC Running
To avoid air conditioner problems during high heat, it is important to stay ahead with proper care. While unexpected issues can still happen, regular upkeep reduces the risk of sudden breakdowns during heat waves.
Here are a few preventative maintenance tips Edmonton homeowners should follow:
– Book a maintenance check at least once a year before warmer weather starts. This allows for early detection of refrigerant leaks, worn components, or minor electrical faults.
– Change or clean AC filters every two to three months. If you have pets or more dust in the home, consider doing this more often.
– Keep the outside unit clear of debris. Remove leaves, dirt, and tall grass so air can flow freely around it.
– Pay attention to any new noises or slower cooling times. These early indicators often show that service is needed before the system shuts down.
Following these simple tasks can help your AC run more reliably when it is needed most. They also improve overall efficiency and help extend the lifespan of the unit.
Keeping Cool When It Matters Most
Summer comfort depends heavily on your AC working at the right time. If it suddenly does not power on during a heat wave, getting it running again becomes a top priority. Knowing common reasons for failure, making a few easy checks, and contacting our professionals promptly can limit how long you go without cool air.
Taking care of these issues early helps your system avoid the strain of working under extreme conditions without proper maintenance. Whether it is ongoing upkeep, timely inspections, or a quick reaction to early warning signs, small actions go a long way to improving performance during hot Edmonton summers.
For reliable AC repair in Edmonton, Mobil Heating & Air Conditioning Inc is ready to help you get your system running smoothly again during these hot summer days, so you do not have to struggle with prolonged discomfort; if you need a quick estimate or wish to schedule a service visit, please contact us today.
If your cooling system is underperforming or won’t start at all, professional AC repair in Edmonton from Mobil Heating & Air Conditioning Inc can help restore comfort quickly and efficiently. For a quick estimate or to book a service visit, please contact us today.