The remote control that comes with air conditioners is both handy and essential. It makes temperature, mode and fan settings easily adjustable without touching the indoor unit. Unfortunately, when all of a sudden, the remote control becomes non-functional and stops working, it becomes frustrating and inconvenient. Non-functionality of the AC remote does not imply that your air conditioner has gone crazy. Often, the remote control itself has a fault. Knowing what might cause the malfunction and how to troubleshoot these causes can save you time and money, along with many unnecessary service calls. Visit https://www.lsairconservicing.sg/remote-control-not-working/ to learn more reasons for the non-functioning of the AC remote.
Normal Causes of Remote Control Not Working
There could be several reasons why an air conditioning remote control may not work. These usually include dead batteries or batteries not installed correctly, signal barriers, problems with the sensor, and even old and broken remote control reconstruction. There are many companies like LS Aircon Servicing Singapore Pte. Ltd. can be contacted in case of poor functioning of the AC remote.
Dead Batteries or Weak Batteries
One of the most common reasons a remote stops working is because of a dead battery. With time, batteries will lose charge and can’t power the remote anymore. The first action if the remote has stopped responding suddenly is to change the batteries with a new set. Be sure to always orient them according to the positive and negative terminals.
Signal Obstruction
The remote control emits infrared (IR) signals. They are received by the air conditioner’s receiver. In case there are any physical obstructions such as furniture or walls or even dust blocking the line of sight, the signal would not reach the unit. Make sure that there is no obstruction between the AC unit and the remote. Also, make sure that the receiver on the AC is not covered with dirt.
Remote Control Sensor Issues
One more reason could be that the infrared sensor in the remote has stopped working and needs to be replaced. You can check if the sensor works by using a smartphone camera. Point the remote toward the sensor and press any button. If the sensor works, you should see a flashing light on the screen of the camera. If there is no light, the sensor of the remote will be faulty and needs to be adjusted.
Fault in the IR Receiver of Air Conditioners
Many times, it is not the remote with a problem, but more of the receiver of the air conditioning unit. If the AC receiver is dirty, misaligned, or even damaged, it may not pick up the signals received from the remote. Gently wipe the receiver area with a dry cloth and try again. If it does not work, a technician may be called for further assessment and repairs on the receiver.
Other Troubleshooting Tips
If none of the above methods are fruitful, consider some of the following:
Resetting the Remote: Some remotes have a reset button; if yours has one, pressing it will conveniently reset factory settings and eliminate minor glitches.
Check for Physical Damage: If the remote has been banged about a bit or has changed environments due to moisture, internal components could be damaged.
Using an Alternative Universal Remote: If your remote looks unrepairable, a universal remote compatible with your AC brand and model might work.
Use the Manual Controls: Most air conditioners will accept manual controls on the body. Not nice, but you could use them until the remote is either repaired or replaced.
Final Thoughts
An air conditioner remote not working interrupts your comfort; however, in most situations, it is an easy fix. One can check batteries, clean sensors, even use a universal remote, and do quite a bit before summoning the experts. With a little troubleshooting, you could reclaim control over your air conditioner and go back to enjoying a cool breeze indoors.