Every homeowner expects their air conditioner to operate correctly when they turn it on. Ultimately, it's the ideal comfort companion during the hot and cold season. However, there are instances when it can fail to turn on. In such cases, you don't have to panic. It could be a simple issue you can fix yourself, or you may need assistance from an air conditioning repair technician. Here are a few reasons why your AC may fail to turn on.

1. You have a clogged drain pan

Besides heating and cooling your home, your air conditioner is also responsible for removing moisture in the air. The moisture then collects in the drain pan under the evaporator coil in your indoor unit before flowing into the condensate drain line. If the drain pan isn't regularly cleaned, particularly in humid areas, it can clog. Remember that the drain pan in many AC units features a second drain which ensures that the pan doesn't clog. When these two drains fill up, they can trigger your AC float switch, turning off your air conditioner. If this happens, get in touch with an AC repair technician to fix the issue.

2. Your AC control board could be faulty

Most air conditioners feature a PCB assembly or a control board responsible for controlling the different elements of your unit. A notable sign that your control board is faulty is when your AC compressor isn't turning on. This problem could also result from a blown internal fuse, which you can buy and replace. However, it's highly recommended that you review your user manual before attempting any repairs. If this doesn't solve your problem, seek the assistance of a knowledgeable AC repair technician.

3. Your thermostat could be the problem

If your thermostat isn't functioning properly, your AC won't know that it should turn on. If your thermostat shows a blank display even after turning it on, you most likely have dead batteries. Replacing the batteries should solve this problem. However, if this doesn't help, the chances are you have a wiring issue and should seek the help of an air conditioning repair service.

4. Your circuit breaker has tripped

Your air conditioner may turn off and fail to turn on if you use many appliances and overload your circuit. You can easily solve this problem by locating your electrical panel and switching your breaker from off to on. If the circuit keeps tripping, leave it and seek the assistance of an AC repair technician. It's likely that your circuit is overloaded and can cause an electrical fire. 

An AC that doesn't turn on can significantly ruin your home's comfort. So, when you notice any of the signs mentioned above, be sure to seek the guidance of a qualified AC repair technician.