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Frigidaire Central air conditioner compressor won't run

If your Frigidaire central air conditioner compressor won't run, the compressor itself may be defective or worn out, although other components should be checked first. A failed compressor can cause the AC compressor not running, air conditioner compressor won't start, or central AC compressor not working symptoms. Next, inspect the start capacitor, which helps cycle the compressor and may fail if it is bulging, leaking, or unable to hold a charge. A defective contactor can also keep the compressor from receiving power when its coil or contacts fail. Less common causes include a failed run capacitor, capacitor, or dual run capacitor, which supplies starting or operating voltage to the compressor and, in some models, the condenser fan motor. Testing compressor continuity or capacitor performance requires a multimeter, and the outdoor condensing unit contains hazardous 240V line voltage. Disconnect power before any inspection, and do not work inside the service panel unless you are qualified to handle line voltage. Compressor replacement or any repair involving refrigerant or the sealed system requires an EPA 608-certified, licensed HVAC technician. Enter your model number to find the exact Frigidaire replacement part for your central air conditioner.

01 - Frigidaire Central Air Conditioner Compressor

The compressor is a pump which compresses the refrigerant and circulates the refrigerant through the evaporator and condenser coils. If the compressor is defective or worn out, it likely won't run. However, this isn’t usually the case. Before replacing the compressor, first check all of the more commonly defective components. If all of the other components are working properly, use a multimeter to test the compressor for continuity. If there is an open circuit, the compressor is likely defective.
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Highly Likely

02 - Frigidaire Central Air Conditioner Start Capacitor

A start capacitor is often used to cycle on the compressor. If the capacitor burns out, the compressor may not run. The start capacitor can be tested with a multimeter to determine if the component can successfully hold and release its charge. If the capacitor is unable to hold and release a charge, or is bulging or leaking, the capacitor will need to be replaced.
Common

03 - Frigidaire Central Air Conditioner Contactor

The furnace control board sends a low voltage signal to the contactor. When the contactor receives the signal from the control board, it closes the circuit, sending voltage to the condensing unit components. If the contactor is defective, it can prevent the compressor from running. To determine if the contactor is at fault, use a multimeter to test the contactor coil for continuity. If the contactor coil does not have continuity or the contacts a on the coil look burnt, replace it.
Common

04 - Frigidaire Central Air Conditioner Run Capacitor

A run capacitor will power either the compressor or the fan motor (a dual run capacitor will power both). If the capacitor burns out, the compressor may not run. To determine if the run capacitor has failed, test the capacitor with a multimeter. If the capacitor is unable to hold and release a charge or is bulging or leaking, replace it.
Less Common

05 - Frigidaire Central Air Conditioner Capacitor

The capacitor provides voltage to the compressor to start it. If the capacitor is defective, the compressor won't run. To determine if the capacitor has failed, test the capacitor with a multimeter. If the capacitor is unable to hold and release a charge or is bulging or leaking, replace it.
Less Common

06 - Frigidaire Central 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 may not run. To determine if the dual run capacitor has failed, test the capacitor with a multimeter. If the capacitor is unable to hold and release a charge or is bulging or leaking, replace it.
Less Common

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Frigidaire AC compressor not running?
Can a bad capacitor cause the air conditioner compressor not to start?
How do I test the contactor when my AC compressor won't run?
What should I check before replacing an AC compressor that is not running?
How do I find the correct Frigidaire AC compressor or capacitor part?

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