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Payne Air conditioner not cooling

If your Payne air conditioner is not cooling, start with the simple airflow checks before assuming a major failure. A clogged air filter is the most likely cause because it restricts airflow, reduces cooling capacity, and can let the evaporator coil frost over. If the filter is clean, the next likely issue is a faulty user control and display board that may not let the unit set or hold the correct cooling temperature. Dirty condenser coils can also make the AC not cooling problem worse by preventing heat from leaving the refrigerant, forcing the compressor to run longer without getting the air cold. A failed dual run capacitor can stop the compressor or fan motor from running, while a defective compressor is possible but should be checked only after the overload protector and capacitor have been tested. A bad thermistor can also misread air temperature and cause poor cooling. Enter your Payne air conditioner model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement air filter, control board, capacitor, thermistor, or other part that fits your unit.

01 - Payne Air Conditioner Air Filter

If the air filter is clogged, air cannot flow properly through the air conditioner. This greatly reduces the cooling capacity of the air conditioner. In addition, if the air filter is clogged, the evaporator coils will frost over. Most air filters used in stand-alone air conditioners can be cleaned with soap and water. Only filters that are extremely clogged with debris or damaged will need to be replaced.
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02 - Payne Air Conditioner User Control and Display Board

The user control and display board allows the user to operate the unit by selecting fan speeds and cooling temperatures. If the board is defective, it may not allow the unit to be set to a proper cooling temperature. If the temperature sensor or thermistor tests appropriately with a multimeter, it's possible the user control and display board is malfunctioning and will need to be replaced.
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03 - Condenser Coils are Dirty

The condenser coils dissipate the heat as the refrigerant passes through the coils. If the condenser coils are dirty, they won’t be able to dissipate the heat as effectively. As debris builds up on the coils, the air conditioner will become less efficient, causing the air conditioner to work harder to cool down. If the coils are significantly dirty, the air conditioner will not be able to maintain the proper temperature, and the compressor will run continuously in an attempt to cool the room. Check the condenser coils to determine if they are dirty. Refer to owner's manual for cleaning instructions.
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04 - Payne Air Conditioner Dual Run Capacitor

A dual run capacitor will power both the compressor and the fan motor. If the capacitor burns out, the compressor or fan motor will not run. To determine whether the capacitor is burned out, use a multimeter to test it for continuity. If the capacitor does not have continuity, replace it.
Highly Likely

05 - Payne Air Conditioner Compressor

The compressor might be defective. However, this is not usually the case. Before replacing the compressor, be sure to check more commonly defective components—particularly the overload protector and the compressor capacitor. If the compressor is defective, it should only be replaced by a licensed technician.
Highly Likely

06 - Payne Air Conditioner Thermistor

The thermistor is a sensor connected to the control board that detects the temperature of the air. The resistance value of the thermistor changes in conjunction with the air temperature. If the air temperature rises, the resistance value will decrease. To determine if the thermistor is at fault, use a multimeter to test it for continuity. If the thermistor does not have continuity, or if the resistance of the thermistor does not change with a change in temperature, replace the thermistor. (To find specific temperature and resistance values, try checking your user’s manual.)
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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Payne air conditioner not cooling?
Why is my Payne AC blowing warm air even though it is running?
Can a dirty air filter cause a Payne air conditioner coil to freeze up?
How do I know if the thermistor is causing a Payne air conditioner temperature control problem?
How do I find the right Payne air conditioner air filter, capacitor, or thermistor?

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