1. Tripped breaker or isolator off
A power surge or fault can trip the breaker in your DB box, or the isolator next to the unit may be switched off.
How we fix itFree: reset the breaker once
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Why Won't My Aircon Turn On?
When the aircon won't start at all, the cause is often simple. Start with the free checks below before calling a technician.
The short answer
An aircon that won't turn on usually has a power problem: a tripped breaker, the isolator switched off, or flat remote batteries. If the power is fine, the cause is often a faulty capacitor or a control board (PCB) fault, which needs a technician.
Quick diagnosis: what is your aircon doing?
| What you notice | Likely cause | Fix | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| No lights at all on the unit | Breaker tripped or isolator off | Reset power (DIY) | Free |
| Remote screen is blank | Flat remote batteries | Replace batteries (DIY) | Free |
| Unit clicks or hums but won't start | Faulty capacitor | Repair after diagnosis | $80 diagnosis* |
| Lights blink but unit won't run | Error or safety cut-off | Diagnosis and repair | $80 diagnosis* |
| Power is on but nothing responds | PCB board or fuse fault | Repair after diagnosis | $80 diagnosis* |
Prices before GST. *On-site diagnosis is $80 for a split system and is waived when you book the repair.
5 reasons your aircon won't turn on, and how to fix each
2. Flat remote batteries
If the remote screen is blank or dim, the unit isn't receiving the signal.
How we fix itFree: replace the batteries
3. Faulty capacitor
The capacitor helps the motor start. When it fails, the unit may click or hum but not start.
How we fix itCapacitor replacementAircon repair: $80 diagnosis →
4. Control board (PCB) fault
The PCB is the aircon's brain. Power surges and moisture can damage it.
How we fix itPCB repair or replacementAircon repair: $80 diagnosis →
5. Loose or damaged wiring
Wiring can loosen or be damaged by pests or water, cutting power to the unit.
How we fix itWiring check and repairAircon repair: $80 diagnosis →
What you can check yourself
- Check your DB box and reset the aircon breaker once.
- Make sure the isolator next to the aircon is switched on.
- Replace the remote batteries and try again.
- Press the manual button on the indoor unit, if it has one.
- Wait 3 minutes after a reset. Many units have a start-up delay.
If the breaker trips again straight away, leave it off and call a technician.
Aircon not turning on: FAQs
How much does it cost to fix an aircon that won't turn on?
At JL Aircond, on-site diagnosis is $80 for a split system and $110 for VRV/VRF, waived if you book the repair. We'll confirm the part and price before any work.
Why does my aircon have power but won't turn on?
If the lights are on but it won't start, it's often a faulty capacitor, a safety cut-off from a full drain, or a control board fault.
Can I reset my aircon myself?
Yes. Switch it off at the isolator, wait a few minutes, then switch it back on. If it still won't start, call a technician.
Is it worth repairing an old aircon?
It depends on the age of the unit and the part that failed. We'll tell you honestly after diagnosis whether repair or replacement makes more sense.
Aircon still won't start? We'll check it.
Send us your aircon brand and a short video on WhatsApp. We'll tell you the likely cause and give you a quote.