Your thermostat is set. The temperature is rising. But your air conditioner is not turning on—and you’re left sweating in the Arkansas heat. If this sounds like your current situation, don’t panic. Whether you’re in Van Buren, Fort Smith, Alma, or Greenwood, the trusted HVAC experts at Riverside Comfort Care are here to help.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most common reasons your air conditioner may not be powering on, what you can check before calling a professional, and why upgrading to a Friedrich Breeze Universal Heat Pump might be the smartest move for long-term efficiency.
Why Is My Air Conditioner Not Turning On?
If your AC isn’t responding, one or more components might be causing the issue. Here are the most likely culprits:
1. Thermostat Problems
If the thermostat isn’t functioning properly, your AC won’t receive the signal to start. Check for dead batteries, incorrect settings (it should be on “Cool”), and loose wiring. Even smart thermostats can glitch after power outages.
2. Tripped Circuit Breaker or Blown Fuse
Your HVAC system uses a lot of power. A power surge or overloaded circuit can trip the breaker. Head to your home’s electrical panel and check if the AC switch has flipped.
3. Clogged Drain Line or Safety Switch
Many AC systems have a safety switch that triggers when the condensate drain line gets blocked. This prevents water damage but also shuts off your system.
4. Capacitor or Contactor Malfunction
If your unit makes a clicking sound but doesn’t start, the capacitor or contactor might be burned out. These small parts are essential to powering the fan and compressor.
5. Burned-Out Motor or Compressor
If your AC is older (10–15 years), key components may have simply worn out. These are major repairs and often signal it’s time to consider a replacement.
What to Check Before You Call a Pro
Before picking up the phone, try these quick DIY steps:
- Confirm the thermostat is in “Cool” mode and set below room temperature
- Replace thermostat batteries
- Check the circuit breaker for any flipped switches
- Inspect the outdoor unit for signs of damage or disconnected wires
- Remove debris or blockages around the condenser
If the unit still won’t kick on, it’s time to call the pros at Riverside Comfort Care.
When It’s Time to Consider an Upgrade
Sometimes the smartest fix is a full system replacement. Here’s when you should think about upgrading:
- Your AC is 12+ years old
- You’re dealing with frequent repairs
- Energy bills are climbing despite routine maintenance
- A major component like the compressor has failed
Instead of sinking more money into outdated tech, consider switching to a modern and efficient system like the Friedrich Breeze Universal Heat Pump.
Why Choose the Friedrich Breeze Universal Heat Pump
If you’re exploring a replacement, the Friedrich Breeze Universal Heat Pump is a top-tier solution. Here’s why it’s an excellent choice for Arkansas homes:
- Heats and cools—perfect for year-round comfort
- Universal compatibility with most ducted systems
- Energy-efficient and ENERGY STAR® certified
- Whisper-quiet operation
- Compact design for flexible installation
This heat pump is especially effective in variable climates like Van Buren and Fort Smith. Plus, it qualifies for energy rebates in some areas, offering savings upfront and over time.
Riverside Comfort Care Handles It All
Whether your air conditioner won’t turn on or you’re ready for a high-efficiency upgrade, Riverside Comfort Care has you covered. Our certified HVAC technicians provide:
We tailor our service to meet the needs of every household in Van Buren, Alma, Fort Smith, and Greenwood. We’re also proud members of the Van Buren Chamber of Commerce, highlighting our commitment to reliable, local service.
Need help diagnosing your AC? Want to explore energy-efficient upgrades? Contact us today.
Call Riverside Comfort Care for AC Help Today
When your air conditioner is not turning on, don’t wait and hope it fixes itself. Get fast, honest service and explore smarter HVAC solutions with Riverside Comfort Care.
Call (479) 353-5266 or schedule an appointment online. We proudly serve:
with expert air conditioning repairs and energy-efficient heat pump installations.
