Split system capacitor issue?

2 years ago

The outside unit of my split system has started producing a low humming sound, that I think may be the capacitor. But I'm pretty clueless... The compressor won't start unless I pull the disconnect in the AM, then plug it back in when I need cooling. Then it seems to run fine the rest of the day. I'm trying to get servicing, but in the meantime wondering if it sounds like the capacitor, and is my workaround going to quit working soon. Thanks!

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PRO

Austin Air Companie

2 years ago

But I'm pretty clueless... The compressor won't start unless I pull the disconnect in the AM, then plug it back in when I need cooling.

This doesn't suggest capacitor problem, as killing the power and turning back on doesn't magically extend the life of a capacitor, nor magiacally start a unit that won't start on it's own from the controls dictating such operation.

This suggests that the unit may be a 2 speed unit / Inverter/or possibly a heat pump with a control board that has faulted stopping the unit from operating due to fault with the unit.

So switching off then back on from the breaker the unit now operates again for a time (depending on the fault itself) because you nefariously are resetting the fault that is preventing the unit from offing itself??

Thinking a few moments: (the big boy step DIY fails to make over and over) why would a unit that is issuing a fault and shutting the unit off preventing the unit from operating?

Because it is operating in a state that causes damage to the system.

While capacitors are a common problem, they are not the only problem by any stretch of the imagination.

(If the unit is an Inverter by chance, there are no self service capacitor(s) that you can change as these capacitors an Inverter uses are typically part of the Inverter control board.)

I service the Katy, Texas area.

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Comments (8)

Elmer J Fudd
2 years ago
" But I'm pretty clueless "

This screams out the solution. Call a pro.
mbrowne
Original Author
2 years ago
As mentioned, I'm trying to get servicing, and in the meantime I'm seeking thoughts. Care to share thoughts on the issue itself?
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sktn77a
2 years ago
Weak contactor solenoid?
mbrowne thanked sktn77a
Elmer J Fudd
2 years ago
You can get a substantial shock from a capacitor and pulling the disconnect first doesn't change that.

I'll repeat my first advice. Trained and experienced AC techs are not rocket scientists but their job isn't done by randomly replacing this part then that part and hoping the cause of the problem is identified solely by chance. Parts needing replacement are diagnosed and identified by knowledgeable testing, not by eeny meeny miny moe.
sktn77a
2 years ago
"Trained and experienced AC techs are not rocket scientists but their job isn't done by randomly replacing this part then that part and hoping the cause of the problem is identified solely by chance."

Sadly, my experience has been that this what the majority do.
PRO
Austin Air Companie
2 years ago
Sadly, my experience has been that this what the majority do.

If all you do is run to the cheapest service there is no promise land of being paid for higher skills. You're known to grumble repetitively on what service should cost, then demote the time it takes to stock a truck? (because this professionality is only demeaned by you)

Uh yes. Then you complain when the service you use is lack luster? You're a contributor to such nonsense. Because it's more about money, than the actual service and paying someone the necessary fees to have a care to become professional.

You're so great at complaining, Sktn77a. One who complains will only continue complaining in my experience. So this is to help / aid others from falling into the same category.

Probably won't make much of a difference, but this is what a professional HVAC contractor would do. (do it because it's the right thing)

Reference post of the complainer in regards to price.
mbrowne
Original Author
2 years ago
Thanks all! Much appreciated!