After a long, hot day, there’s nothing worse than your air conditioner and thermostat not working! If you’re currently experiencing this frustration, you’re not alone. Thousands of homeowners face similar issues every summer, especially in hot climates like Houston, where air conditioning isn’t just a luxury, it’s essential for comfort and sometimes even safety. In this guide, we will discuss AC issues, solutions, and maintenance. Let’s dive in!

Signs That Your AC May Not Be Functioning Properly.

Before we dive into the reasons your air conditioner and thermostat not working, let’s identify some warning signs that trouble is brewing:

1. Weak airflow from your vents suggests something is blocking the air or your fan isn’t working correctly.
2. Unusual noises like grinding, squealing, or banging often precede complete system failure.
3. Frequent cycling (turning on and off repeatedly) indicates your system is struggling to maintain temperature.
4. Inconsistent temperatures throughout your home could signal thermostat problems.
5. Rising energy bills without increased usage suggest your system is working harder than it should.
6. Your thermostat display is blank or unresponsive when you try to adjust settings.
7. The AC runs but doesn’t cool your home, showing a disconnect between your thermostat and cooling system.

Recognizing these signs early can save you from complete system failure and potentially save you money on costly emergency repairs.

Why is My Air Conditioner and Thermostat Not Working?

There’s a complex relationship between your thermostat and air conditioning system. When one fails, it often appears as though neither is working. Let’s break down the common causes of your air conditioner and thermostat not working:

1. Power Issues

Often overlooked, power problems are frequently the culprit when your air con thermostat isn’t working. Check for:

• Tripped circuit breakers
• Blown fuses
• Power outages affecting your neighborhood
• Disconnected or damaged power wires to either the thermostat or the AC unit

2. Thermostat Problems

Your thermostat is the brain of your cooling system. When it malfunctions, your entire AC system can appear broken:

• Dead batteries in battery-powered models
• Incorrect settings (check if it’s accidentally set to “heat” instead of “cool”)
• Accumulated dust or debris inside the thermostat housing
• Aging wiring is causing intermittent connections
• Location issues (thermostats placed in direct sunlight or near heat sources will misread room temperature)

3. Air Conditioner Issues

Sometimes the problem of your air conditioner and thermostat not working lies with the AC unit itself:

• Dirty air filters restrict airflow
• Low refrigerant levels due to leaks
• Frozen evaporator coils
• Compressor problems
• Electrical control failure
• Sensor issues are preventing proper temperature readings
• Drainage problems are causing the system to shut down

When your air conditioner thermostat is not turning on or your air conditioner thermostat stopped working altogether, understanding which component is failing is crucial to addressing the problem efficiently. For air conditioner repair services, reach us now!

Traditional Thermostat Troubleshooting &Smart Thermostat Troubleshooting

Depending on whether you have a conventional or smart thermostat, your troubleshooting approach will differ.

Traditional Thermostat Troubleshooting

When dealing with a conventional thermostat, several common issues might be preventing your cooling system from functioning properly.

1. Check power sources: Replace batteries or verify the connection to your home’s electrical system.
2. Clean the interior: Remove the cover carefully and gently dust internal components with a soft brush.
3. Check wiring connections: Look for loose, corroded, or disconnected wires.
4. Verify settings: Ensure the thermostat is set to “cool” with a temperature lower than the current room temperature to avoid your air conditioner and thermostat not working.
5. Test the mercury switch (in older models): Gently tap the thermostat to see if the contacts reconnect.

Smart Thermostat Troubleshooting

Smart thermostats bring additional capabilities but also come with their own set of potential problems when they malfunction.

1. Power cycle the device: Turn it off, wait 30 seconds, then turn it back on.
2. Check Wi-Fi connection: Many smart thermostats rely on internet connectivity.
3. Update firmware: Outdated software can cause functionality issues.
4. Reset to factory settings: As a last resort, you may need to reset and reconfigure your device.
5. Check compatibility: Some smart thermostats aren’t compatible with all HVAC systems.
6. Verify C-wire connection: Many smart thermostats require a common wire for consistent power.

Remember that when your air conditioner and thermostat not working, patience during troubleshooting can save you from unnecessary service calls.

DIY Thermostat Fixes Methods

Before reaching an expert to call for 24-hour AC repair in Houston, TX, or wherever you’re located, try these DIY fixes that might save you time and money.

Method 1: Power Reset

1. Turn off the power to both the thermostat and the AC unit at the circuit breaker
2. Wait 30 seconds
3. Restore power and test functionality

Method 2: Battery Replacement

1. Open the thermostat cover
2. Remove old batteries
3. Install fresh batteries, ensuring correct polarity
4. Replace the cover and test

Method 3: Clean Connection Points

1. Turn off the power at the circuit breaker
2. Remove the thermostat cover
3. Gently clean terminal screws and wire ends with a soft cloth
4. Ensure all connections are tight to fix the air conditioner and thermostat not working
5. Replace the cover and restore power

Method 4: Level and Reposition

1. Check if your thermostat is level using a bubble level
2. If it’s installed on an exterior wall or near heat sources, consider relocating it
3. Install in a central location away from sunlight, drafts, and appliances

Method 5: Reset Programming

1. Review your owner’s manual for reset instructions
2. Follow the specific sequence for your model
3. Reprogram desired settings

These approaches can resolve many common issues when your air conditioner thermostat isn’t turning on or functioning properly.

Can a thermostat cause the AC not to work?

Absolutely. Your thermostat acts as the command center for your entire cooling system. When it malfunctions, it can prevent your perfectly functional AC unit from operating.

Air conditioner and thermostat not working can present various symptoms that mimic other AC problems:

• No response when adjusting temperature settings
• The air conditioner runs constantly without shutting off
• AC doesn’t reach the set temperature
• System short cycles (turns on and off frequently)
• Inconsistent temperature throughout your home

Understanding this connection helps explain why your air conditioner thermostat stopped working suddenly—sometimes the issue is purely at the control level, not with the cooling system itself.

For detailed steps on installing AC alongside your heating system, check out our guide on the Installation Process for Adding AC.

Thermostat Is Still Not Working?! Call a Professional

When DIY troubleshooting fails to resolve your issue, it’s time to call in the experts. Professional HVAC technicians have the tools, knowledge, and experience to diagnose complex problems.

Consider professional help if your air conditioner and thermostat not working when:

• You’ve tried all basic troubleshooting steps without success
• Your system is making unusual noises
• You notice water leakage (the cost to repair a leaking AC unit typically ranges from $200 to $1,500, depending on the cause)
• You smell burning odors from your thermostat or AC unit
• Your system turns on, but doesn’t cool properly

For residents in Houston, air con thermostat not working, Houston, TX, services are available for emergencies, even during weekends or holidays. Professional diagnosis often saves money in the long run by preventing further damage to your system. Contact us now!

When to Replace Your Thermostat?

Sometimes repair isn’t the best option if your air conditioner and thermostat not working. Consider replacement when:

1. Your thermostat is over 10 years old: Older models lack the energy-saving features of modern thermostats.
2. Repeated malfunctions occur despite repairs.
3. Temperature readings are consistently inaccurate, leading to comfort issues and wasted energy.
4. You want to upgrade to smart features like remote access, learning capabilities, or integration with home automation.
5. Your energy bills are rising without explanation.

Upgrading to a modern programmable or smart thermostat can be a wise investment, potentially saving you 10-15% on annual heating and cooling costs while providing improved comfort and convenience.

How To Keep Your Thermostat Working All Year Long?

Preventive maintenance extends the life of both your thermostat and AC system. Follow these tips to maximize your thermostat’s lifespan and performance and avoid your air conditioner and thermostat not working:

1. Clean regularly: Dust your thermostat exterior monthly and remove the cover to clean interior components twice yearly.
2. Replace batteries: For battery-powered models, change batteries annually, before they fail.
3. Schedule professional maintenance: Have your entire HVAC system inspected before summer and winter.
4. Maintain stable voltage: Install surge protectors for your HVAC system to prevent electrical damage.
5. Update firmware: For smart thermostats, keep software current for best performance.
6. Monitor performance: Address small issues before they become major problems.
7. Control humidity: Excessive moisture can damage electronic components.

Consistent maintenance not only prevents breakdowns but also extends the lifespan of your entire cooling system. 

Learn about the signs that indicate it’s time for a capacitor change in our article on Air Conditioning Unit Capacitor Replacement.

Time To Get Comfortable with 24SevenAC

When troubleshooting fails to solve your air conditioner and thermostat not working, and you need professional help, choosing the right service provider matters. For Houston residents experiencing AC emergencies, 24sevenac offers round-the-clock emergency services to restore your comfort quickly.

Our professional technicians can:

• Diagnose complex electrical issues
• Address refrigerant leaks safely
• Replace failing compressors when necessary
• Recalibrate or replace malfunctioning thermostats
• Provide preventative maintenance to avoid future failures

With our services, you never have to endure uncomfortable conditions for long, even during peak summer heat, and we will give you the best cost to replace the air conditioner compressor and other parts! Reach us now!

Conclusion

When your air conditioner and thermostat not working, the problem can range from simple battery issues to complex system failures. By understanding the relationship between your thermostat and AC unit, you can often diagnose and sometimes fix problems yourself.

Remember that while DIY approaches are appropriate for basic problems like battery replacement or cleaning, more complex issues involving electrical components or system integration often require professional intervention. The cost of professional repairs is typically far less than the discomfort of living without air conditioning or the potential damage that could result from attempted DIY repairs gone wrong.

Next time your air conditioner thermostat isn’t turning on, approach the problem methodically. With patience and the right information, you can enjoy consistent comfort regardless of the temperature.