If your AC isn’t working as well as it should, there could be a problem with your compressor. In this blog post, we’ll show you how to troubleshoot a defective compressor and get your AC back up and running.
Check the power supply to the compressor
If the compressor is not receiving power, it will not be able to run. Check the power supply to the compressor to make sure that it is turned on and receiving power. If the power supply is turned off, turn it on and see if the compressor starts running. If the power supply is turned on and there is still no power to the compressor, check the fuse or circuit breaker supplying power to the compressor. If the fuse or circuit breaker has blown or tripped, replace it with a new one and see if the compressor starts running.
Check for any loose or damaged wiring.
If the compressor won’t run at all, begin by checking for any loose or damaged wiring. Also, check to see if the switch that controls power to the unit has been turned off. If the compressor still won’t start, it may be because the motor is locked up. To check this, try starting the compressor with a jump start from a car battery.
Check the compressor’s pressure switch.
The pressure switch is a vital component of the compressor, and when it fails, the compressor can’t run. To check the pressure switch, use a multimeter to test it for continuity. If there is no continuity, then the switch needs to be replaced.
Check the compressor’s overload protector.
If the compressor’s overload protector has tripped, the compressor will not run. The overload protector is a button or switch that automatically shuts off the compressor if it overheats. This is a safety feature that protects the compressor from damage. To reset the overload protector, press the button or switch, and then wait a few minutes for the compressor to cool down. If the compressor still doesn’t turn on, you may need to replace the overload protector. If the compressor does not have an overload protector, check to see if there is a reset button or switch on the control panel. If so, press it and wait a few minutes for the compressor to cool down before trying to turn it on again.
Check the compressor’s capacitor.
A defective compressor capacitor is a common cause of compressor failure. The capacitor is used to store electrical energy and to help the compressor start up. If the capacitor is faulty, it can prevent the compressor from starting, or cause it to overheat and shut down. Capacitors store a dangerous electrical charge even after power is switched off and don’t reliably self-discharge — testing one safely requires an insulated discharge tool a technician carries. Testing it safely requires discharging it first with an insulated tool — this step is best left to a licensed technician rather than DIY multimeter testing. If the multimeter does not beep or displays a low reading, the capacitor is defective and needs to be replaced.
Check the compressor’s contactor.
The contactor is an electrically controlled switch that supplies power to the compressor. If the contactor is defective, it won’t supply power to the compressor, and the compressor won’t run.
Check for any air leaks in the system.
The most common cause of a defective compressor is an air leak in the system. This can be caused by a number of things, including: -A hole in the compressor -A loose fitting or connection -A damaged O-ring If you think there may be an air leak, the first thing you should do is check all of the fittings and connections. If they are all tight, then you will need to check the O-rings. These are located between the compressor and the condenser, and between the evaporator and the expansion valve.
Check the refrigerant level.
If the condenser is not functional, it will not be able to properly cool the refrigerant. This will cause the compressor to overheat and eventually fail. The first step in troubleshooting a defective compressor is to check the refrigerant level. If it is low, you will need to recharge the system.
Check the evaporator coil.
If the evaporator coil is iced over, it may be low on refrigerant. If the coil is dirty, it won’t be able to absorb heat as effectively and will cause the compressor to run for longer periods of time in an attempt to reach the temperature set on the thermostat.
Check the condenser coil.
One of the most common issues with a compressor is that the condenser coil becomes dirty or debris-filled. This can restrict air flow and cause the unit to overheat. In some cases, it may even damage the compressor itself. To clean the condenser coil, first shut off power to the unit and then remove any debris that have collected around it. Use a soft brush to gently remove any dirt or dust from the coils, being careful not to bend them. You may also need to use a special cleaning solution designed for condenser coils. If the coils are excessively dirty, you may need to replace them entirely.
