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HomeRepair HelpRheem A/C RepairRheem Air conditioner compressor won't run Repair
Rheem Air conditioner compressor won't run
If your Rheem air conditioner compressor won't run, the fan may still blow while the unit never actually cools the air. The most likely cause is a failed temperature control thermostat, which can keep the compressor motor from getting power even when the fan motor runs. Next, check the temperature control board, since it supplies voltage to the fan motor and compressor, but confirm the compressor overload, capacitor, and compressor first because control boards are often misdiagnosed. A bad thermostat can also prevent the compressor from starting if it does not properly sense temperature or close the cooling circuit. The overload is another common failure point and should be tested for continuity with a multimeter. If the overload and capacitor test good, the compressor itself may be defective, though compressor replacement should be handled by a licensed technician. A failed thermistor can also stop compressor operation. Enter your Rheem air conditioner model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact thermostat, control board, overload, thermistor, or other replacement part that fits your unit.
01 - Rheem 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 - Rheem 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 - Rheem 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 - Rheem 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 - Rheem 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 - Rheem 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 won't my Rheem air conditioner compressor run?
Can a Rheem air conditioner thermostat problem stop the compressor from starting?
How do I know if the Rheem air conditioner overload is bad?
Should I replace the compressor if my Rheem AC compressor is not turning on?
How do I find the right Rheem air conditioner part for this repair?
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