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HomeRepair HelpHeil Central A/C RepairHeil Central air conditioner compressor won't run Repair
Heil Central air conditioner compressor won't run
If your Heil central air conditioner compressor is not running, the system may blow warm air or fail to cool even when the indoor blower operates. The most likely cause is a failed compressor, although the compressor is not usually the first part to replace. A start capacitor is the next likely cause because it helps the compressor start; a bulging, leaking, or electrically failed capacitor can leave the air conditioner compressor unable to start. A defective contactor can also keep the compressor off when the furnace control board sends the signal to energize the condensing unit. Less common causes include a failed run capacitor, capacitor, or dual run capacitor, which supplies starting or operating voltage to the compressor and condenser fan motor. A technician can use a multimeter to check continuity and capacitor performance, but testing or replacing these components involves dangerous 240V line voltage. Compressor replacement or any repair involving refrigerant, the refrigerant lines, or the sealed system requires an EPA 608-certified HVAC technician. Enter your Heil central air conditioner model number to find the exact replacement compressor, capacitor, contactor, or other part for your specific unit.
01 - Heil 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 - Heil 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 - Heil 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 - Heil 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 - Heil 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 - Heil 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 won't my Heil central AC compressor run?
Can a bad capacitor cause the AC compressor not to start?
How do I test the contactor when my AC compressor won't run?
What should I check before replacing the AC compressor?
How can I find the correct Heil AC compressor or capacitor part?
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