If your Panasonic air conditioner compressor won't run, the fan may still operate while the unit never starts cooling properly. The most likely cause is a failed temperature control thermostat, since its internal contacts can burn out and stop power from reaching the compressor. Next, check the temperature control board, which sends voltage to the fan motor and compressor, but do not replace it until you’ve tested more common failure points like the compressor overload, capacitor, and compressor. A faulty thermostat can also keep the compressor from starting, while a burned-out overload may interrupt power if it no longer has continuity. The compressor itself can fail, but it is less common and should be replaced only by a licensed technician. A bad thermistor can also cause an AC compressor not turning on if it cannot properly report temperature to the control board. Use your Panasonic model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact temperature control thermostat, control board, overload, thermistor, capacitor, or other replacement part made to fit your specific air conditioner.
01 - Panasonic Air Conditioner Temperature Control Thermostat
The temperature control thermostat has electrical contacts inside that burn out over time. It is possible for the thermostat to still turn on the fan motor but not the compressor motor.
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02 - Panasonic Air Conditioner Temperature Control Board
The temperature control board provides voltage to the fan motor and compressor. If the control board is defective, it may stop providing voltage to the compressor. Control boards are often misdiagnosed. Before replacing the temperature control board, make sure you check more commonly defective parts—particularly the compressor overload, capacitor and the compressor itself. If you are certain that all of the other components are working properly, replace the temperature control board.
The thermostat monitors the temperature of the air. When the air temperature rises above a set point, the thermostat activates a switch to provide power to the fan and compressor. If the thermostat is defective, it may prevent the compressor from running. If you determine that the compressor is at fault, replace it.
The overload protects the compressor from burning out if it draws too much current. Over time, the overload can burn out. To determine if the overload is burned out, use a multimeter to test the overload for continuity. If the overload does not have continuity, replace it.
The compressor itself 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.
The thermistor is a sensor connected to the control board that detects the temperature of the outside air. If the thermistor does not have continuity, it can prevent the compressor from running. To determine if the thermistor is at fault, use a multimeter to test it for continuity. If the thermistor does not have continuity, replace it.