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HomeRepair HelpColeman Central A/C RepairColeman Central air conditioner compressor won't run Repair
Coleman Central air conditioner compressor won't run
If your Coleman central air conditioner compressor won't run, the compressor may be defective, but that is not the most common cause. Start with the start capacitor, which helps the compressor begin its cycle. A failed, bulging, or leaking start capacitor can leave the air conditioner compressor not running. Next, check the contactor, which closes to send power to the outdoor condensing unit. A defective contactor or burnt contacts can prevent the compressor from starting. Less common causes include a failed run capacitor, standard capacitor, or dual run capacitor, which supplies operating voltage to the compressor and, in some systems, the condenser fan motor. If these components test good, the compressor itself may have an open winding or another internal failure. An AC compressor not running involves 240-volt line voltage, capacitors that can hold a dangerous charge, and electrical testing, so shut off power at the disconnect box and circuit breaker and proceed only if you are qualified. Any repair inside the sealed system or involving refrigerant requires EPA 608 certification and a licensed HVAC technician. Enter your Coleman model number to find the exact replacement part for your specific central air conditioner.
01 - Coleman 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 - Coleman 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 - Coleman 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 - Coleman 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 - Coleman 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 - Coleman 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 Coleman central AC compressor not running?
How do I test a Coleman AC start or run capacitor?
Could the Coleman AC contactor be stopping the compressor from starting?
How can I tell whether the Coleman compressor itself is defective?
How do I find the correct Coleman central AC compressor or capacitor part?
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