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HomeRepair HelpPayne Central A/C RepairPayne Central air conditioner compressor won't run Repair
Payne Central air conditioner compressor won't run
If your Payne central AC compressor is not running, the air conditioner compressor may be defective, but that is not usually the first part to replace. The compressor circulates refrigerant through the evaporator and condenser coils, so a failed compressor can leave the central AC compressor not working or the air conditioner unable to start. Check the start capacitor first, since a burned-out, bulging, or leaking capacitor can keep the compressor from starting. Next, inspect the contactor, which closes the high-voltage circuit to the outdoor condensing unit when it receives a signal from the furnace control board. A failed run capacitor, standard capacitor, or dual run capacitor can also prevent the compressor from operating. If these components test good, the compressor may have an open winding or another internal failure. Testing or replacing the compressor requires work on 240V equipment and the sealed refrigerant system. Turn off power at the disconnect box and circuit breaker, and have a licensed HVAC technician handle compressor replacement or any refrigerant work requiring EPA 608 certification. Enter your Payne model number to find the exact replacement capacitor, contactor, or other part for your central air conditioner.
01 - Payne 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 - Payne 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 - Payne 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 - Payne 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 - Payne 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 - Payne 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 Payne AC compressor not running?
What should I check if my AC compressor is humming but not starting?
How do I test the Payne AC contactor when the compressor won't start?
How can I find the correct Payne AC compressor or capacitor part?
When should I call an HVAC technician for an AC compressor that won't run?
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