Central Air Conditioner will not start

smdecat · 2007-05-10T22:26:27+00:00

Hello,Recently when I went to turn on the central air I noticed that the aircoming out of the unit was not cold. It was right before I went tobed so I didn't check the compressor outside to see if it wasrunning. today I had some time, and I fired up the AC and checkedoutside, and noticed that the fan was not running.I checked the breaker and flipped and a couple of times, this did notturn it on.I checked the high voltage and low voltage wires at the compressor andI was getting a reading on the high voltage, but my volt detectorcould not pick up a hot wire on the low voltage line.No obvious obstructions to the fan or motor, no wire inside the unitseemed worn or torn, and was properly connected.I can hear a faint hum at the compressor as if a motor is trying torun but it is not actually running.This is a very old unit, it's a GE and I am wondering if it came withthe house when it was built in the late 70's.Anyone have any idea what could be the cause or perhaps a start in theright direction? I'm not sure I can afford a new unit right now..and Ican only imagine how much repairs may cost to an old unit like this.thank you

May 10, 2007 23 Replies

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Bob Pietrangelo 19 years ago

This is not a Do-it-yourself forum.

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Mo Hoaner 19 years ago

Actually, when a system hasn't been run in a long time, you might need a shot of ether to get it going. Spray the ether in either the air cleaner of carburetor - uhhh I mean contactor - while someone tries repeatedly starting the unit by turning the thermostat up and down. That ought to get it going!

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DIMwit 19 years ago

You run a mortuary too?

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Tekkie® 19 years ago

I have found either Ex-lax or tomato sauce and beer get me going.

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