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Window AC units normally have two motors. One motor spins both the inside and outside fans. This motor may be PSC (permanent split capacitor) with a run-capacitor. Test the capacitor or just replace it if it is old and you don't have test meter(s). The other motor is inside the sealed compressor unit. This will be overheating if the first motor was not running at full speed due to a failing run capacitor. The thermal check will auto-reset but the compressor motor most likely cannot start until it is cooled completely down by being turned off for an hour or more. There is also a run capacitor on the compressor motor. Test and/or replace. If this does not correct the problem I do not recommend further repairs as most window units are cheaper to replace -- labor will be high on changing a compressor, fan motor, or coils and expansion valves.
I have omitted advise about cleaning coils and fans and filters, but if you find a lot of dirty build-up then clean those first before moving on to motor issues.
the capacitor that is required is the same size as what is fitted
it will read as voltage and uf number
best have a ac technician check it out as it may not be the capacitor but the power board
some ac units have a capacitor that is in effect two capacitors in one to run the compressor and the cooling fan as well
best get the technician in as it could save a lot of money in the long run
If this is happening in both heat and cool cycles, it is most likely a fuse or capacitor. Split AC units usually use 2 capacitors one for the compressor motor and one for the fan, these are usually 450 to 500 volt AC and some times when one has failed the system still tries to run as normal but soon shuts down after a few seconds as the lack of a complete cycle is sensed. These are located in the outside unit under the cover and can be tested with a small circuit tester but BE WARNED if the capacitor is working it will hold a potentially lethal charge and must be shorted out with a metal object before removal to discharge it, do not attempt this if you are a novice. Replacement capacitors are easily available from $10.00 to $120.00 depending on type, brand and availability. An AC serviceman can do this for you for around the $600.00 mark.
Ohm out the compressor...if it is new & getting the correct power, should be under warranty. You should not have to install a hard start kit on a new unit.
The condensor fan is usually a capacitor start capacitor run motor.To test i switch the unit on as normal then carefully flick the fan around in the direction of rotation (you may have to take the grill off) to do this,do not use your hand! If the motor starts to run it will be a faulty capacitor, do not leave it running for long as it will not run at full speed and will trip on thermal O/L or burn out.This is a common fault on AC split phase motors that use a capacitor for either starting or start and run.
It's either a bad run capacitor, start capacitor or start relay. More than likely if you have a thermostatic expansion valve it's a Start capacitor or start relay.
Air Conditioning Compressors are Permanent Split Capacitor motors that use a "Run" capacitor. You can purchase a "Kick-Start" which is a hard starting device.
If the compressor never kicks in, I would check the start capacitor, thermostat and the compressor windings. Most times the start capacitor is defective. Some window air conditioners the fan will run while the compressor stop through the thermostat switch. If the thermostat switch is bad every thing runs except the compressor. Let me know, Thanks, Sea Breeze
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