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HomeRepair HelpIntertherm Central A/C RepairIntertherm Central air conditioner compressor won't run Repair
Intertherm Central air conditioner compressor won't run
When your Intertherm central air conditioner compressor won't run, the compressor itself may be defective, but check the more commonly failed electrical parts first. A failed start capacitor can keep the compressor from starting, while a defective contactor can prevent voltage from reaching the condensing unit. A run capacitor, standard capacitor, or dual run capacitor can also cause an AC compressor not running symptom if it cannot hold and release its charge. A worn compressor is less common than these parts, but it may be at fault if the electrical components test good and the compressor has an open circuit. Bulging or leaking capacitors, burnt contactor contacts, humming, or an air conditioner compressor that won't start are useful clues. Turn off power at the disconnect box and circuit breaker before inspecting anything. The contactor, capacitors, and compressor use dangerous 240V line voltage, so electrical testing and replacement should be handled by a qualified technician unless you have the proper training. Any refrigerant or sealed-system repair requires an EPA 608-certified technician. Enter your Intertherm central air conditioner model number to find the exact replacement compressor, start capacitor, run capacitor, dual run capacitor, or contactor for your unit.
01 - Intertherm 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 - Intertherm 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 - Intertherm 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 - Intertherm 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 - Intertherm 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 - Intertherm 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 Intertherm AC compressor not running?
Can a capacitor or contactor keep the air conditioner compressor from starting?
How do I test an AC compressor that will not run?
What should I do if my Intertherm central air conditioner will not turn on at all?
How can I find the correct Intertherm AC compressor or capacitor replacement part?
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