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HomeRepair HelpKelvinator Central A/C RepairKelvinator Central air conditioner compressor won't run Repair
Kelvinator Central air conditioner compressor won't run
If your Kelvinator central air conditioner compressor won't run, the compressor may be defective or worn out, but it is not the first part to replace. A failed compressor can make the air conditioner compressor not start and leave the central AC compressor not working, so test it for continuity with a multimeter after checking the more common causes. The start capacitor is the most likely faulty component and may be bulging, leaking, or unable to hold and release a charge. Next, check the contactor, which closes the high-voltage circuit to the condensing unit when it receives a signal from the control board. A failed run capacitor, capacitor, or dual run capacitor can also keep the compressor from starting. Turn off power at the disconnect box and circuit breaker before inspecting components. Capacitors and contactors involve dangerous 240V line voltage, so use a qualified technician if you are not trained to test them. Compressor replacement or any repair inside the sealed system requires an EPA 608-certified HVAC technician because it involves refrigerant. Enter your model number to find the exact Kelvinator replacement part for your central air conditioner.
01 - Kelvinator 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 - Kelvinator 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 - Kelvinator 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 - Kelvinator 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 - Kelvinator 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 - Kelvinator 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 Kelvinator AC compressor not running?
How do I test the AC start or run capacitor when the compressor won't start?
How can I tell if the contactor or compressor is causing my AC not to run?
When should I call a technician for a Kelvinator AC compressor that won't run?
How do I find the correct Kelvinator AC compressor or capacitor replacement part?
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