If your Kelvinator air conditioner compressor won't run, the fan may still blow while the unit never actually cools. The most likely cause is a failed temperature control thermostat, which can still power the fan motor but stop sending power to the compressor motor. Next, check the temperature control board, since a bad board may not provide voltage to the compressor, though it should be confirmed only after testing parts like the overload, capacitor, and compressor. A defective thermostat can also keep the compressor from starting by failing to close the cooling circuit. If the AC compressor is not turning on, test the compressor overload for continuity, since this safety device can burn out and interrupt power. The compressor itself can fail, but that is less common and usually requires a licensed technician. A bad thermistor can also cause a Kelvinator air conditioner compressor not working condition by sending incorrect temperature information to the control board. Enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement part for your specific Kelvinator air conditioner.
01 - Kelvinator 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 - Kelvinator 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.