A computer can be used for an infinite number of things and in fact we could more easily tell what we cannot do than what we can do. However, there is something clear and evident: if it does not start it is little less than a paperweight. Therefore, in this article we will help you find the solution to your iMac’s startup problems if it doesn’t turn on properly or takes longer than necessary.
First of all, check the power cord
It seems obvious and it really is, but many times the failures that seem to be the most important end up being caused by very absurd causes. Check well that the cable that connects your iMac with the electrical current is connected at both ends and that, obviously, you have a connection to the light in your house. If you suspect that the cable is broken and you have another one lying around, try changing it to rule out that that was the problem. If after these checks you have not been able to turn on the iMac or it turns on, but does not start or any other unexpected failure occurs, continue reading this article.
If macOS won’t load on your iMac
It is possible that at the level of internal components, your device is in perfect condition and that what is failing is the software. If you cannot access the macOS operating system, there is a way to access the function called “ Recovery of macOS through the Internet ”, for which it is necessary that you follow these steps.
- Restart the Mac and when it is turning on hold down the Command + Alt / Option + R keys. If this key combination doesn’t work for you, you can try Shift + Alt / Option + Command + R.
- Once here, a world ball should appear before you as a sign that you are accessing the macOS recovery and you can release the keys.
- If you can, connect your Mac to the internet via cable. If this is not possible for you, select a WiFi network and access it.
- When you are in “macOS Utilities” you will find these options:
- Restore from a Time Machine backup : function that will help you restore the system with a copy that you have made on an external storage disk.
- Reinstall macOS : allows you to install the operating system from scratch by downloading it from the internet, although you will not be able to upload a copy but it will be installed completely new.
- Get help from the internet: This part will take you to the Apple website to request technical support.
- Disk utility: section in which you can manage the different disks and partitions of these that you have on the iMac, whether they are internal or external connected by cable.
How can you tell if it’s the motherboard
If what fails is any of its components, a message will appear on your Mac that is the same or very similar to what you have seen in the previous image. These failures can appear for various reasons, although the most common is that it has a defective part that could have come from the factory that way or have deteriorated due to moisture damage. If the iMac has received a blow, the break could also be related to it. In any case, at this point, it is advisable to contact Apple‘s technical service directly (in the penultimate section of this article we will tell you more about this).
IMac Hard Drive or SSD may fail
A failure that is also frequent in Macs in general and iMac in particular is the storage disk. This contains all your data and information, which in the end goes into the operating system and it is evident that if it is not working correctly, the computer cannot be started either. Unfortunately, there is no way at your fingertips that can help you detect if this is what is wrong, so again we recommend going to the last sections of this article.
What if the screen fails?
CPU and screen is an all in one in the range of iMac, but in the end its behavior may not be the same. The screen can be perfectly fine and yet there are faulty board components as we explained in another point, but also the other way around. If you notice that the screen has some kind of sign that indicates breakage of this, it is possible that this is the problem. Maybe your iMac is working properly and the problem lies with the screen. A tip in this case is to connect a second monitor to check if it starts up. If you actually check that you can see the macOS boot, the fault is with the screen and you will have to go through the technical service.
Apple technical support
Previously we have directed you to this point for various failures, but also if you suspect damage to the power supply or any other component, you should contact Apple’s technical service or, failing that, a service authorized by the brand . They have tools and qualified professionals to be able to accurately detect the origin of the problem that prevents your iMac from turning on. If the device is also under warranty, you could get a free repair if it is considered to be due to a fault other than misuse, otherwise they will offer you an uncompressed repair estimate . The cost in the end may vary depending on the fault.
Remember that you can request an appointment at Apple or an authorized service through its technical support website, by going in person to an Apple Store, through the iOS Support app and even by phone for free if you are in Spain and Call 900 150 503.
What about a third-party provider? Is it reliable?
First of all, it is perfectly understandable that these types of establishments attract attention for offering cheaper repair prices, whether in labor, parts or both. However, something important must be taken into account and that is that you will lose the warranty of the product with Apple, if it still was, since manipulating the computer internally by a third party is a reason for its loss. Also keep in mind that they could use non-original parts that do not provide the same user experience in the end. It must also be borne in mind that if they do not have enough knowledge they could not find the origin of the problem in question. In any case, we advise you to first consult the conditions of this establishment and, above all, make sure that they give you guarantees in case something does not go well after the repair.