If your AC compressor not turning on has left you sweating in the Riverside heat, you’re not alone. At Good Hope Air Conditioning & Heating, we get calls like this every summer—often from homeowners who aren’t sure where to start. And honestly, we don’t blame them. It’s frustrating when your AC suddenly stops working and you don’t know why.
The good news? You can check a few things yourself before calling in the pros. Some issues are simple. Others need an expert’s touch. But either way, we’re here to help walk you through it.
AC Compressor Not Turning On? Check the Thermostat First
Sometimes it really is the basics. Make sure your thermostat is set to “cool,” and that the temperature is lower than the current room temp. Next, check the fan mode—”auto” or “on” are both okay, depending on your preference.
If you recently had a power outage, battery change, or reset, your settings might have changed. In some cases, the system may need to be reprogrammed. This is a surprisingly common reason for an AC compressor not turning on.
Reset the Breaker if Your AC Compressor Is Not Turning On
Now, head over to your electrical panel. Look for any tripped breakers, especially the one labeled for your AC system. If the breaker has flipped, reset it by turning it off and then back on. Still no luck? You may be dealing with a deeper electrical issue.
Repeated tripping usually means something’s overloading the system. That’s where Good Hope Air Conditioning & Heating steps in. We’ll check the wiring, breakers, and internal components to find the root of the problem.
Listen for Buzzing From the AC Compressor
If you notice the AC compressor not turning on, walk outside and listen. If the fan is spinning but the compressor is silent or just buzzing, the issue could be a bad capacitor. That little part stores the energy the compressor needs to start—and it wears out over time.
Capacitor issues are especially common in Riverside’s heat. These should always be replaced by a licensed technician. Attempting it yourself could lead to injury or system damage.
What If the AC Compressor Not Turning On Is Due to a Clogged Drain?
Blocked drain lines can cause your AC to shut down. When the condensate line fills up, a float switch kicks in and shuts off power to avoid water damage.
Try using a wet/dry vacuum on the drain line or flushing it with vinegar. But if the clog keeps coming back—or you still notice your AC compressor not turning on—we’re just a call away.
Outdoor Disconnect Could Be Why Your AC Compressor Is Not Turning On
Most AC units have a service disconnect box mounted on the wall near the outdoor unit. Sometimes this switch gets turned off during yard work or maintenance and never flipped back.
If you find the switch in the “off” position, flip it back and give the system a minute. It may take a moment to cycle on again.
Could Low Refrigerant Stop the AC Compressor From Turning On?
Yes—it absolutely could. When refrigerant levels are low, your compressor might shut down as a safety measure. And if it keeps trying to start, it could burn itself out.
If your AC compressor not turning on seems connected to poor cooling or hissing sounds, a refrigerant leak could be the issue. We’ll find it, fix it, and recharge your system safely and properly.
Call Good Hope Air Conditioning & Heating in Riverside
If your AC compressor not turning on is causing major comfort issues—and the basic troubleshooting hasn’t worked—it’s time to bring in a professional. We serve homes throughout Riverside, and we treat every repair like it matters. Because it does.
Whether the issue is electrical, mechanical, or something more complex, we’ll diagnose it quickly and give you honest options for repair. No pressure, just real solutions from people you can trust.
Prevent AC Compressor Problems Before They Start
Schedule Routine Maintenance
Our tune-ups catch early warning signs and keep your system running smoothly.
Change Filters Monthly
A clean filter means better airflow—and less strain on the system.
Keep the Outdoor Unit Clear
Dirt, leaves, and debris around the condenser unit can raise pressure and overheat your compressor.
Don’t Wait If Your AC Compressor Is Not Turning On
When you notice your AC compressor not turning on, don’t ignore it. Small issues can turn into big ones quickly—especially during a Riverside summer. At Good Hope Air Conditioning & Heating, we’re ready to help you get your comfort back fast.
Call today to schedule expert HVAC service in Riverside, CA or one of the surrounding areas—and get your AC running right again.
