When your outside AC unit not turning on is the first sign something’s wrong on a hot Riverside afternoon, it’s easy to worry. We get calls like this all the time at Good Hope Air Conditioning & Heating. And while it can seem like a big deal at first, many of the causes are simpler than you’d expect.
Let’s walk through what you can do right now—before the heat gets to you.
Step 1: Outside AC Unit Not Turning On? Start at the Thermostat
It may seem obvious, but your thermostat is the brain of the entire system. If it’s not set to “cool” or the set temperature is too high, your outside unit won’t kick on.
Also, check for dead batteries. Weak or failing batteries can prevent the thermostat from communicating with your AC system.
Step 2: Breaker Tripped? That Can Stop the Outside Unit
One of the most common reasons for your outside AC unit not turning on is a tripped circuit breaker. This can happen from power surges, overheating, or even just system strain.
Find your breaker panel, locate the AC breaker, and flip it fully off and back on. If it trips again right away, give us a call. There could be a deeper issue, and we’re here in Riverside to help.
Step 3: Dirty Filter Could Be the Culprit
When airflow is restricted due to a clogged filter, your system can overheat and shut down entirely.
Change your filter regularly—especially during peak cooling season. It’s a small step that can prevent bigger problems like your outside AC unit not turning on later on.
Step 4: Outdoor Shutoff Switch May Have Been Flipped
Some homes in Riverside have a safety shutoff switch installed on the wall near the outside unit. If this gets flipped off—maybe during yard work or home maintenance—your AC will stay off, too.
Double-check that the switch is in the ON position. If you’re not comfortable doing so, it’s best to call in a pro from Good Hope Air Conditioning & Heating.
Step 5: Check the Disconnect Box If the Outside AC Unit Not Turning On
Next to the unit, you’ll see a small gray box—that’s your disconnect. Open it carefully and see if the pull-out or switch is on.
If it’s off, switch it back on. But if you’re unsure about what you’re looking at, don’t risk it. Call a licensed HVAC technician to handle it safely.
Step 6: Listen for Buzzing or Clicking Sounds
If your outside AC unit isn’t turning on but you hear a buzzing noise, you may have a faulty capacitor or contactor.
These are electrical components that help your unit start. They can wear out over time, especially with Riverside’s heat. Please don’t attempt to replace them yourself—capacitors hold a charge even when the power is off and can be dangerous.
Step 7: No Sound or Motion from Outside Unit? That’s a Red Flag
When there’s no sound, no movement, and no sign of life, your system may have a more serious problem. This could be a failed motor, disconnected wire, or even a refrigerant-related issue.
Our team at Good Hope can diagnose and fix these quickly. We’ve helped homeowners all across the Inland Empire get their cooling systems back in action.
Step 8: Still Have the Outside AC Unit Not Turning On? Call Us
If you’ve gone through all the basic checks and your outside AC unit is still not turning on, it’s time to call in the pros.
At Good Hope Air Conditioning & Heating, we offer same-day service throughout Riverside and nearby communities. We’ll troubleshoot the issue thoroughly, explain the fix in clear terms, and get your comfort restored.
Don’t Wait Out the Heat—We’re Just a Call Away
There are plenty of reasons your outside AC unit might not turn on, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. Whether it’s a simple power issue or a worn-out part, we’ve seen it before—and fixed it fast.
Call Good Hope Air Conditioning & Heating today. We’re proud to serve Riverside and the surrounding areas with honest service, dependable solutions, and fast AC repairs that keep your home cool and comfortable.
