Your Outside AC Unit is Not Running But Inside Is (Answered)

Thermostat Troubles

Ever found yourself scratching your head, wondering why the outside AC unit isn’t running, while the inside one is? A very common culprit behind this issue could be your thermostat settings. In this section, we’ll delve into how incorrect thermostat settings could be affecting your outside AC unit and guide you through the steps to reset and rectify the situation.

How Incorrect Settings Can Affect the Outside AC Unit

Your thermostat acts as the brain of your HVAC system, communicating between the indoor and outdoor units. Incorrect settings on the thermostat can disrupt this communication, leaving your outdoor unit non-operational. This can happen if the system is set to “fan only,” causing only the inside fan to circulate air without engaging the outside unit to cool the air. Other thermostat settings that can lead to similar problems include incorrect time or day settings, or an unresponsive touch screen.

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Steps to Check and Reset the Thermostat

Before calling an HVAC technician, there are simple steps you can take to reset your thermostat. Firstly, ensure that it’s set to “cool” and not just “fan.” Check the temperature settings and make sure they are set below the current indoor temperature. Additionally, verify that the time and day settings are correct. Most modern thermostats have a reset button, or a series of commands you can follow to restore factory settings. If none of these steps work, it may be time to call in the professionals.

Troubleshooting the thermostat is a logical first step to resolve the issue of an outside AC unit that’s not running. Incorrect settings can often be the culprit, and thankfully, they are easy to rectify. So before you jump to conclusions or dial your HVAC technician, a simple thermostat check could save you time and money.

Mechanical Issues

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If you’ve ruled out thermostat troubles and still find your outdoor AC unit non-operational, it may be time to consider mechanical issues. These are problems that require a more in-depth investigation and usually the expertise of a professional. In this section, we will focus specifically on two common mechanical failures: the capacitor and the contactor. Understanding the signs that these components might be faulty can save you valuable time and possibly prevent further damage.

Capacitor and Contactor Failure

The capacitor and contactor are crucial components of your outdoor AC unit, responsible for storing energy and regulating the electrical flow, respectively. When these parts fail, the outdoor unit won’t function properly. A failed capacitor often exhibits a swelling or leaking appearance. The contactor, on the other hand, can have visible signs of wear, pitting, or even melting. Both of these issues usually necessitate replacement rather than repair.

Signs That These Might Be the Issue

If your outdoor unit makes a humming noise without fully starting, or if it intermittently starts and stops, these are potential signs that the capacitor or contactor might be failing. Furthermore, if the circuit breaker trips frequently, it could also be indicative of a mechanical issue. These are problems that should be dealt with immediately to prevent further damage and ensure the longevity of your AC system.

Understanding the role and function of the capacitor and contactor in your AC system is crucial when troubleshooting mechanical issues. These components are often the unseen heroes of your cooling system, and when they fail, the consequences can be immediate and disruptive. If you suspect that these could be the issue, it’s best to call in the experts for a more thorough diagnosis and solution.

Refrigerant Levels

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As we delve deeper into potential reasons why your outside AC unit may not be running while the inside is, it’s important to consider the level of refrigerant in your system. This chemical compound is vital for the cooling process, and if levels are too low, you may encounter issues with your outdoor unit. In this section, we’ll look into how low refrigerant levels can adversely affect your system and why professional help is often needed to resolve this issue.

Explain How Low Refrigerant Can Cause the Unit to Stop

Low levels of refrigerant can lead to an array of problems, most notably the inability of your outdoor unit to function effectively. The unit may not run because there’s not enough refrigerant to complete the cooling cycle, causing the system to shut down as a safety measure. In some cases, you might hear unusual sounds like hissing, which can be a sign of refrigerant leaks.

Why This Requires Professional Help

Addressing refrigerant levels is not a DIY task for most homeowners. Properly diagnosing a refrigerant issue and handling the compound requires specialized tools and knowledge, as improper handling can be dangerous. Licensed professionals have the expertise to safely evaluate your system, locate any leaks, and replenish the refrigerant to the required level, ensuring that your system operates efficiently.

If you suspect that low refrigerant levels could be the cause of your outside AC unit’s issues, it’s crucial to act quickly by getting professional assistance. Allowing this issue to linger can lead to more severe problems like compressor failure, which can be much more costly to repair. It’s a technical issue that necessitates expertise, both for your safety and the longevity of your air conditioning system.

Source: https://gardencourte.com
Categories: Outdoor