AC Fan Runs But Compressor Does Not Start

Air Conditioner Compressor Is Not Working, and Fan Is Running

Sometimes the AC’s compressor is not working, but the fan still runs. This is a confusing situation when the outside ac unit not running but inside is. This is sometimes simple to resolve. There are also times where you can fix it yourself. When this is not possible, call your professional HVAC tech in to diagnose the problem and make the necessary repairs.

What Happens If the AC Compressor Fails to Work?

In the event of an AC compressor failure, you will likely face these issues:

• Noises from the outdoor unit.
• Shaking from the outdoor unit when turning the AC on.
• The compressor doesn’t start at all.
• Warm air comes out of the unit.
• The AC trips your circuit breaker.

Seven Reasons Why the AC Fan Runs But Compressor Does Not Start:

1. Faulty Thermostat or Improper Setting

It is possible that the thermostat settings were inadvertently changed. As a result, you expect the compressor to cool the room down, but it has been given the opposite message. It thinks the room is already cold, so it stops working. This is a simple fix. You adjust the thermostat setting to the correct temperature. If the thermostat is broken, your HVAC tech will let you know this and will replace it for you.

2. Dirty Filter and Coils

These can put extreme pressure on the AC compressor and make it overheat. This causes the compressor to shut down. Failing to clean the air filters and condenser coils is a sure way to cause the compressor to fail. Always change the air filters regularly and clean the condenser coils. When all obstructions have been removed, the air can flow better, and your system will work properly.

3. No Power Going to Unit

Split AC systems sometimes experience this problem. The outside unit may not be getting power. The fan inside, however, is still working. This problem requires you to have some knowledge of electrical wiring. Check the wiring between both the outdoor and indoor units. Check the circuit breaker for a trip and to see if a fuse has blown. If you cannot do these things yourself, have your AC tech visit the home and inspect your ac.

4. Capacitor and Relay Issues

The capacitor and relay are essential for the compressor to get the power it requires to operate. Much of the time, these two things cause the compressor to stop working. They happen to be inexpensive, and buying them for a replacement is not going to put you out financially. Replacing them is a tricky job, so leave that part to your HVAC expert.

5. Blown Compressor

If you leave the little issues alone, eventually, they become more significant problems. The worst thing that can happen is that these small issues can wind up blowing the compressor and damage it severely. If the unit overheats or the capacitor is defective, the whole compressor can be destroyed. A dead compressor makes for a dead AC unit. If the compressor gets blown, you will need to replace the entire AC unit. If the compressor can be changed out, leave this job to your HVAC technicians, too.

6. Indoor and Outdoor Units Don’t Match

This is a problem with split AC units. You cannot replace an indoor or outdoor unit with any type you like. You have to be sure that they match one another. If the unit was recently replaced, but the compressor is not operating correctly, it could be that the two groups are different. This is a costly mistake to deal with; contact your HVAC experts for help and to find out what your options are.

7. The AC Is Over 10 Years Old

An old AC will eventually reach the end of its useful life. Even with proper maintenance, the AC unit will ultimately deteriorate and will need to be replaced. If an old unit’s compressor stops working, but the fan keeps running, this is one of the first signs that the system has reached the end of its life. It is best to buy a new AC and replace the existing one to avoid any costly problems.

Why You Should Contact a Professional AC Technician.

Look, we get it – we practically just gave you all the tools you need to troubleshoot and try to get this fixed all on your own. On the other side of that, we have also heard horror stories from a customer about how their potentially easy fix turned into a much bigger problem. This also voided any warranty that they might have still had to cover their unit from the manufacturer. Some times trying to save a few bucks will cost you hundreds more. So please, before you do it yourself. Give All Time Air Conditioning a call at (561) 777-9888 for a free any time consultation.
We will fix your ac the right way, and if it stops working, we will come back at no charge. Stay cool!