What Causes an AC Not Starting After Winter and How to Fix it

An AC that does not start after winter may have issues such as a tripped circuit breaker, clogged filters, low refrigerant, damaged wiring or frozen evaporator coils. Basic checks can help identify simple problems before professional servicing is needed.

• Reset the circuit breaker if it has tripped and check that the AC is receiving a steady power supply.
• Clean the filters to remove accumulated dust, which can restrict airflow and affect cooling performance.
• Clear leaves, dirt and debris from around the outdoor unit to maintain proper ventilation.
• Low refrigerant can reduce cooling performance and may require a professional leak inspection and refrigerant refill.
• Check the thermostat settings and replace its batteries if the model uses them.
• Run the AC briefly before regular summer use to identify unusual noises, weak airflow or repeated shutdowns.
• If the AC still does not start or shows persistent problems, contact a qualified technician for inspection and repair.
• If the appliance is old and requires frequent repairs, replacing it with a newer, energy-efficient AC may be worth considering.

You can also buy a new AC on Easy EMIs at over 1.5 lakh partner stores across 4,000 cities, including Reliance Digital, Croma, and Vijay Sales.

An AC may fail to start after winter because it has remained unused for several months, allowing dust, moisture or electrical issues to develop. Common causes include a tripped circuit breaker, clogged air filters, drained remote batteries, thermostat issues and damaged wiring. Outdoor units may also collect leaves and debris, restricting airflow when the AC is switched on again. In some cases, low refrigerant or frozen evaporator coils can affect cooling and operation. Before calling a technician, check the power supply, reset the circuit breaker, replace remote batteries and clean the filters. Make sure the thermostat is set correctly and the outdoor unit is clear. If the AC still does not start, unusual sounds or repeated shutdowns occur, professional inspection is recommended to identify electrical or mechanical faults safely.

If you want to replace your AC, visit any of Bajaj Finance's 1.5 lakh partner stores — like Vijay Sales, Croma, Reliance Digital, and more — across 4,000 cities, including Tier 2 cities like Jaipur, Lucknow, Kochi, Bhopal, and more in India. Choose your preferred model, then use the Bajaj Finance Insta EMI Card or Bajaj Finance Easy EMI Loan to finance it. Convert the cost into Easy EMIs that suit your monthly budget and enjoy zero down payment on select models — take it home without any upfront payment.

The most important step is to clean and inspect the AC before switching it on regularly, ensuring safe operation and proper airflow.

• Air filter: Clean or replace the air filter to remove accumulated dust and improve airflow.
• Outdoor unit: Clear leaves, dirt and debris around the outdoor unit to maintain proper ventilation and heat dissipation.
• Thermostat: Check the thermostat settings and replace remote batteries if required to ensure the AC responds correctly.
• Electrical connections: Check the circuit breaker and power supply for visible issues before starting the AC after months of inactivity.
• Trial run: Run the AC for a short period and check airflow, cooling, unusual sounds or repeated shutdowns to identify problems early.

A short trial run before regular use helps confirm that the AC starts properly, cools effectively, and operates without unusual noises or repeated shutdowns.

You can also check out inverter ACs to make an informed buying decision.

You can fix most AC startup issues after winter in 5 steps by checking the power supply, remote, thermostat, filters and outdoor unit before calling a technician.

• Reset the circuit breaker: If your AC is not getting power, resetting the breaker can restore operation.
• Inspect the thermostat settings: Incorrect settings can prevent cooling. Ensure it is set to ‘cool’ mode at an appropriate temperature.
• Check for loose wires: Loose or disconnected ends can disrupt power flow. Securing connections may fix the issue.
• Clean the air filters: Clogged filters can block airflow, leading to malfunctions. Regular cleaning enhances efficiency.
• Inspect the drainage system: A blocked drain line can cause water buildup, triggering safety shutdowns. Clearing blockages can prevent system failure.

If the AC will not turn on after winter or the circuit breaker trips again within 30 minutes, stop using it and contact a qualified technician.

Feel the cool breeze in summer with the portable AC and check out their features on Bajaj Mall.

Call a technician if your AC still does not start after completing the 5-step DIY check, particularly when you notice electrical, refrigerant or mechanical warning signs.

• Persistent power failures: If resetting the circuit breaker does not help, an expert should inspect the wiring.
• Refrigerant leaks: If your AC fails to cool even with a working compressor, a technician can check and refill the refrigerant.
• Strange noises: Unusual sounds indicate issues with the fan, motor, or compressor. Early repairs prevent major damage.
• Weak airflow: If airflow remains poor even after filter cleaning, deeper system issues may be the cause.
• Frequent shutdowns: If your AC turns off repeatedly, internal components may need servicing or replacement.

If these warning signs continue, professional servicing can help identify electrical, refrigerant or mechanical faults and prevent further damage to the AC.

Also read: 1.5-ton ACs

The primary reason an AC may take time to start after winter is thicker compressor oil in cold temperatures, which can temporarily slow compressor operation after long inactivity.

• Compressor oil: Low temperatures increase oil viscosity, so the compressor may need extra time to circulate oil before normal operation.
• Capacitor: A weakened capacitor can delay compressor start-up, particularly after months of inactivity. If the delay exceeds 5 minutes, professional inspection is advisable.
• Thermostat: Incorrect settings or a weak thermostat signal can prevent the AC from starting immediately.
• Refrigerant: Low refrigerant or a system imbalance can affect compressor operation and cooling performance.

A short delay of around 2–3 minutes can be normal for some ACs, but a longer delay or repeated failure to start should be checked by a technician.

Thinking of buying a new AC?

Before you do that, explore the latest offers from Bajaj Finance. You may find a great deal on a model that matches your needs.

Bajaj Finance offers two ways to convert your air conditioner purchase into affordable monthly payments. Both options are available at over 1.5 lakh partner stores across 4,000 cities in India.

How to choose?

Both options require you to be physically present at a partner store. The Insta EMI Card suits shoppers who want to buy across multiple categories over time. The Easy EMI Loan suits buyers financing a higher-value AC purchase in a single transaction.

Upgrading to a new air conditioner is simple and affordable with Bajaj Finance's in-store financing options. The entire process usually takes just 10 to 15 minutes. Follow these steps:

1. Browse models on Bajaj Mall: Explore the range of AC models available on Bajaj Mall. Compare brands, features, and prices before heading to the partner store.
2. Find a partner store near you: Use the Bajaj Finance store locator to find a nearby partner outlet such as Croma, Vijay Sales, or other authorised retailers.
3. Check the AC in person: Visit the partner store and explore available models. Check star rating, cooling capacity, and inverter technology to find the one that suits your needs.
4. Choose a suitable EMI option: At checkout, ask the store executive about the Bajaj Finance Insta EMI Card or Easy EMI Loan. Confirm available tenure options and whether your chosen model comes with a zero down payment offer.
5. Complete payment and take your AC home: Once approved, your purchase is processed immediately, and you can schedule delivery or installation at your convenience.

You can also check your loan eligibility online in advance by entering your mobile number and OTP, helping you plan your purchase better.

Bajaj Finance’s Smart Savings Calculator helps you unlock maximum savings every time you shop at partner stores. It brings together all available brand, dealer, and scheme offers—so you can see your total savings instantly and shop smarter with Easy EMIs.

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