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HomeRepair HelpNutone Central A/C RepairNutone Central air conditioner compressor won't run Repair
Nutone Central air conditioner compressor won't run
When your NuTone central air conditioner compressor is not running, the system may have an air conditioner compressor that won't start, even if the indoor blower operates. The most likely cause is a defective or worn compressor, although other parts should be checked first. A failed start capacitor can keep the compressor from starting, followed by a faulty contactor that does not send power to the condensing unit. Less common causes include a failed run capacitor, capacitor, or dual run capacitor, which supplies voltage to the compressor and, in some models, the condenser fan motor. Bulging or leaking capacitors and burned contactor contacts are warning signs. Testing a compressor or capacitor with a multimeter requires turning off power at the disconnect box and circuit breaker, and the outdoor unit contains dangerous 240-volt wiring, so use a qualified technician if you are not trained for line-voltage work. Compressor replacement or any repair involving refrigerant, the refrigerant line, or the sealed system requires an EPA 608-certified HVAC technician. Enter your NuTone model number to find the exact replacement compressor, start capacitor, contactor, run capacitor, or dual run capacitor for your central air conditioner.
01 - Nutone 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 - Nutone 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 - Nutone 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 - Nutone 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 - Nutone 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 - Nutone 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 NuTone AC compressor not running?
How do I test the capacitor or contactor when my AC compressor won't start?
Could the thermostat or control board keep the NuTone compressor from running?
How can I tell if the NuTone AC compressor itself is defective?
How do I find the correct NuTone AC compressor or capacitor replacement part?
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