When temperatures rise in Sherman and the heat feels like it’s pushing through your windows, the last thing anyone wants is an air conditioner that won’t turn on. You’re expecting relief, but instead you’re greeted with a machine that’s completely unresponsive. During a heatwave, this isn’t just uncomfortable—it can quickly become a serious concern, especially for households with children, pets, or elderly family members.
Quick action is key. While it’s easy to assume the worst, many AC issues come down to small, fixable problems. Whether it’s a wiring fault, a thermostat issue, or something else entirely, a system that won’t start during peak heat demands attention fast. Knowing the most common reasons and what you can check safely can give you a clearer picture before calling our professionals for AC service in Sherman.
Common Reasons Why Your AC Won’t Turn On
An air conditioner might fail to start for several reasons, and not all of them involve major repairs. Recognizing these early signs can help prevent escalating problems.
– Tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse: AC units require a lot of power to start up. A heatwave places even more stress on the system. If your home’s electrical system is overloaded, a breaker might trip or a fuse may blow. This cuts off power to the unit entirely.
– Thermostat issues: If the thermostat isn’t responding or showing a blank screen, the batteries might be dead or the unit could be malfunctioning. A misreading thermostat can prevent the AC from turning on even if the room is sweltering.
– Loss of power to the unit: Power switches located near the indoor or outdoor unit sometimes get turned off accidentally. Extreme weather can loosen connections or damage wires, causing the unit to stop receiving electricity.
– Clogged or dirty air filters: A blocked air filter can suffocate your system. Most AC systems detect airflow problems and automatically shut down to avoid motor damage. This can result in the unit not powering on at all.
These types of issues are common during intense heatwaves. As the demand for cooling increases, the system may be pushed to its limits, revealing problems that didn’t show up during milder months.
Basic AC Troubleshooting Steps You Can Try
Before you jump to conclusions or assume the worst, it’s worth taking a few safe and simple steps to see if the problem is something minor.
1. Check your thermostat settings
Make sure it’s set to “cool” and that the temperature is set lower than the current room temperature. Replace the batteries to rule that out as the cause.
2. Inspect the circuit breaker
Head to your breaker box and look for any tripped switches. Flip the breaker off for your AC and then turn it back on. Only do this once. If it trips again, stop and call a technician.
3. Change the air filter
Look at your AC’s filter and see if it’s dusty or clogged. If it’s been more than a month since you replaced it, go ahead and put in a clean one.
4. Make sure the AC is plugged in
Some systems have a disconnect box near the outdoor unit. Check that everything is securely connected and not loose. For the indoor unit, verify that it hasn’t been accidentally unplugged.
These steps can sometimes get your system running again. If they don’t, it’s best not to continue poking around inside the AC unit. That’s when bringing in our technicians is the right move. Mistakes can cause more damage or create safety hazards, especially during high-demand summer conditions. An example is trying to test internal wires or access control boards without the right tools. This can lead to costly errors that a trained hand would avoid.
When to Bring in Our Professionals
If you’ve gone through the basic steps and your system still refuses to turn on, that’s a clear sign you need help from our professionals. Some problems go beyond what can be safely checked at home. For example, if your AC unit hums but doesn’t start, or if it starts and then shuts off quickly, there could be a deeper electrical or motor issue. Delaying service in these cases can lead to bigger failures that are more expensive to address.
Unusual noises are another red flag. Rattling, buzzing, or grinding sounds can signal a failing motor or debris that’s come loose inside the unit. Strange smells, especially a burning odor, should also be taken seriously. That could point to wiring trouble or overheating parts. Leaks or pooled water around the AC unit may mean the condensate drain is clogged or there’s a refrigerant leak. Either way, it’s time for a technician to take a closer look.
Another sign it’s time for professional AC service in Sherman is if the system shows no response at all even though the thermostat is working, the breakers are fine, and the filters are clean. At that point, the problem is likely internal and requires skilled assessment. Our technicians can safely diagnose and resolve issues that are hidden from sight, such as damaged control boards, failed capacitors, or broken contactors.
How to Avoid Future AC Start-Up Problems
It’s a lot easier to keep your system running when you treat basic maintenance as part of your routine. Air conditioning units that get seasonal check-ups tend to perform better and come with fewer surprise breakdowns. The key is not waiting until the hottest week of July to check on your system’s condition.
To reduce the chance your AC won’t start during a heatwave, follow these practical tips:
– Replace your air filter every 30 to 60 days when the system is in heavy use
– Trim plants and clear debris from around the outdoor unit so airflow isn’t blocked
– Schedule system inspections before summer hits to catch issues early
– Check your thermostat at the start of the season to confirm accurate readings
– Keep an eye on humidity inside your home, as it can affect AC performance
Even small tasks like keeping vents unblocked and confirming that furniture isn’t restricting airflow can go a long way. When everything works together, the system isn’t overworked and will last longer.
Staying Cool with Scheduled AC Service in Sherman
Nobody wants to be stuck in a Sherman heatwave without air conditioning. That kind of discomfort can ruin your entire day, even your week, especially when indoor temperatures spike and fans just aren’t cutting it. Whether you just got your AC fixed or never want to run into a surprise shutdown again, the best thing to do is stay ahead of the problem.
Regular AC service protects comfort and cuts down on costly repairs in the long run. It also helps your cooling system run more efficiently, which can lower wear and tear when demand is high. Maintenance isn’t a luxury during the summer months. It’s a necessity if you want your AC to work when it matters most.
If your AC has been acting up during high-temperature stretches in Sherman, it makes sense to have one of our technicians look at the entire system. A fresh inspection now can prevent bigger breakdowns later. By staying on top of system care and getting help when initial fixes don’t work, you can count on your AC to keep your space cool no matter how hot it gets.
If your cooling system continues to show problems despite basic troubleshooting, it may be time to secure reliable maintenance from Allied Plumbing Heating & Cooling. Regular care prevents small issues from becoming major failures, and our experts are ready to ensure your equipment runs smoothly when you need it most. Rely on our AC service in Sherman to inspect and maintain your system so unexpected outages are minimized. For a quick estimate or to schedule a service visit, please contact us today.
