In AC systems, the air conditioner reset button is on the outside unit's lower edge, typically close to the ground. Some models have the reset button located behind the service panel, which may require tools to remove. Reset buttons are usually red or yellow with a clear “reset” label.
Shut Off Your AC Unit At The Breaker
Search for the breaker switch that runs to your central heating and air conditioning system. Switch it to the “off” position. Wait at least a full minute before switching the breaker back to the “on” position.
To reset the switch, the water within the emergency drain pan must be removed. A shop vacuum is the best technique to suck the water out. The system should turn back on once the water level is low enough for the switch to reset.
Common Reasons Why Your Air Conditioner is Not Turning On
Resetting your thermostat is often all that's necessary to get it working again. A tripped circuit breaker is another common reason why your AC won't turn on. Using too many appliances at once can trip the circuit breaker.
The main reasons your AC unit outside is not turning on could be something that has tripped the circuit breaker, something is blocking the fan's airflow, or the condensing unit is damaged. Other potential issues could be the thermostat isn't set correctly or the compressor could be malfunctioning.
If your air handler is running but not blowing air, there are two likely scenarios: either a broken AC blower belt or an issue with the motor itself. If the air handler is humming or buzzing but not making the mechanical sounds of a motor running, you're most likely talking about an issue with the motor itself.
Most blower motors are controlled by a red or black switch on the side of the unit. Hold the button down for a few seconds (the manual will tell you precisely how long), then release. Replace the Panel and Restore Power.
Once you're confident that each safety switch has worked correctly, reset them by lifting or twisting the switch to turn it back on. If you have a fridge or air-conditioner on the circuit, it's best that you wait 2-3 minutes before turning them back on to prevent damage.
It's a small, red button usually located on or around the unit. The button should have a clear 'reset' label. Once you find the button, press it for around three seconds and observe the AC. Check whether the AC kicks on immediately and if it doesn't, press the button again for another three seconds.
Inside the home you have an air handler unit. This unit is supplied electricity in order to operate. The air handler will have a double lever breaker switch in the garage breaker box. The outdoor unit of the home will also have a breaker lever or light switch that you can cut power to the air conditioner if you needed.
We've already explained how a dirty air filter can cause weak air, but did you know that holes or large cracks in an air handler can also contribute to this problem? They can also contribute to reduced air quality by allowing mold and mildew to take root and grow.
Reset Your Circuit Breaker
Identify the electrical panel—frequently found in the garage, basement, crawlspace or utility closet—and look for the switch for your HVAC system. If the circuits aren't labeled, you might have to try things out. Turn the circuit breaker off, wait 30 minutes, and then flip it back on.
It's designed to automatically shut off the furnace blower if it overheats. Once the blower cools down, pressing the reset button can help restart the furnace. However, it's essential to understand that not all furnace models are equipped with this feature.
If your cables are looking fine, try unplugging the fan for a few minutes and then plugging it back in again. Sometimes, this process can reset the motor and solve your furnace problems. If unplugging and plugging your fan back in again doesn't work, check the fuse box.
Strange Rattling, Clanking, or Screeching
One of the first signs you may notice when there's an issue with the blower motor is a strange noise coming from the indoor unit or air handler.
The easy explanation for your AC not turning on is a thermostat issue. Double check your thermostat is on, set to “cool,” and that the temperature is set to a few degrees colder than the normal ambient temperature of your home. You may also need to replace the batteries.
To test the fuse, set your multimeter to the continuity test setting. Then, touch the probes to either side of the fuse. If the fuse is OK, the multimeter should beep or indicate that you've completed the circuit. If you get no such indication, that means the fuse is bad and must be replaced.
There are a number of reasons why your air conditioner might be running but not cooling. It could be an issue with the thermostat, the compressor, or the evaporator coils. Or, it could simply be clogged with dust and debris, which is preventing it from working properly.
This problem of getting a humming noise along with little to no spinning is very common with motors that do not have good quality capacitors. You should replace the capacitor with a good one and the blower motor will work smoothly. Once again, this may initially trace back to a simple blocked filter.