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HomeRepair HelpCarrier A/C RepairCarrier Air conditioner compressor won't run Repair
Carrier Air conditioner compressor won't run
If your Carrier 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 sending power to the compressor. Next, check the temperature control board, which supplies voltage to the fan motor and compressor, but do not replace it until you have tested the more common failure points. A bad thermostat can also keep the compressor from starting, followed by a burned-out overload protector or weak compressor capacitor. The compressor itself can fail, but that is less common and usually requires a licensed technician for replacement. A faulty thermistor can also cause an AC compressor not turning on if it stops sending the correct temperature signal to the control board. If your Carrier air conditioner compressor is not working or the compressor is not starting, enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement thermostat, overload, capacitor, thermistor, control board, or other part made for your specific Carrier air conditioner.
01 - Carrier 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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Highly Likely
02 - Carrier 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.
Highly Likely
03 - Carrier Air Conditioner Thermostat
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.
Highly Likely
04 - Carrier Air Conditioner Overload
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.
Highly Likely
05 - Carrier Air Conditioner Compressor
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.
Highly Likely
06 - Carrier Air Conditioner Thermistor
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.
Common
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my Carrier air conditioner compressor won't run but the fan still works?
What should I check first if my Carrier AC compressor is not turning on?
Can a bad thermostat or thermistor keep a Carrier air conditioner compressor from starting?
Should I replace the Carrier air conditioner control board if the compressor is not working?
How do I find the right Carrier air conditioner part for a compressor that will not run?
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