The compressor tries to start then stops (makes a buzzing like sound) then after 1 to 2 min it tries to again and so on. When it brifely stars I can tell it would continue to cool if it stayed on. Before this happended I did notice when the compressor was running it was a bit louder (buzzing sound).

Hi

Most likely the compressor may have seized. The reason it buzzes, then stops is that your thermostat calls for air, the motor tries but cannot turn the compressor, the motor heats and the overload protection shuts it down until the motor cools off.

To diagnose, turn off the power to the unit. Let stand overnight (to allow the coolant to completely drain back). See if you can turn the unit by hand. If you can turn it, switch on the power to see if you're back in business. If you can turn it but it won't start, try replacing the capacitor on the motor.

If you can't turn it, then the compressor or a bearing is seized.

Please check this useful link to troubleshoot your issue:-

http://www.inspectapedia.com/aircond/aircond15d.htm

To troubleshoot air conditioner noise, check this link bellow:-

http://www.inspectapedia.com/aircond/aircond15c.htm

Every air conditioner has a motor called a compressor. The compressor provides the cooling capacity for the air conditioner. If the compressor or its electrical controls are defective the compressor may try to start, fail, and create an electrical overload. If the unit does create an overload, every compressor circuit is also equipped with an overload safety switch. The safety switch is designed to protect the compressor from burning out. The safety switch will cut the power to the compressor for a certain length of time and then reset itself. When it resets it will allow the electricity to flow to the compressor once again. If the compressor then starts, the unit should function normally. If the compressor doesn't start when the overload resets, the overload will again cut the electricity to the compressor. This cycle will continue indefinitely. (Always allow three to five minutes before restarting the compressor.) If this situation is occurring, unplug the air conditioner and get help from a qualified repair technician. This problem is often fatal to the air conditioner because the cost of repair often exceeds the price of a new air conditioner.

Richard Roth

The FixYa Team

Hi jts64,

I'd suggest getting the capacitor checked on your air-conditioner. The contact on the compressor will produce chatter if it is not getting power from the capacitor. I'd suggest checking this first before doing anything else. But be aware: If the capacitor is fine, it will still be loaded with power, so avoid touching its contact points.

Kind Regards

JEDEMEYER1

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