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View Full Version : Compressor off/ fan trying to run


westnlas
Jun 13, 2008, 07:29 PM
The fan on my Rudd unit keeps clicking like trying to start. I replaced the contactor. It didn't correct the problem. I called a service tech. He checked it out and said everything was fine. He replaced a flag connector. I had wired the new (double contactor) in for single pole. He moved the line wire I had joined at the "tap" (No jumper bar) and said I may need a new thermostat. Well I replaced the thermostat and it's still doing it.
The fan clicks and tries to start even when I threw the breaker at the disconnect.

I feel the capacitor (dual) is bad, but the guy at the electric supply said it read good with the meter.
I know there is a delay switch in front of the coil, but why would the fan try and start if the pump wouldn't ?
The unit is 14 years old and this just started.

Any ideas? Thanks in advance. We're retired and in Las Vegas, the wife and I hosing each other down is not an option. LOL:)

T-Top
Jun 13, 2008, 07:43 PM
If the contactor is closing and the compressor runs with out the motor after the capacitor was tested and checks good. I would say the motor is shot. If it's a heat pump you may have a bad relay or defrost board.

westnlas
Jun 16, 2008, 02:30 PM
T-Top, thanks a lot ! Just an update. I called Sears and they sent a tech out. He knew less than I did. He heard the noise and removed a line that I had wired to a tap side of one of the contact poles (using it as a single pole contactor) and reattached it to the line terminal. He checked the voltage at the coil (27.2) and I asked him to check the outlet pressure of the compressor which was good. He said the unit was fine and told me to replace the t-stat. Noise returned. I replaced the t-stat. Same noise. Sears tells me it's another $ 100 to get the guy back out. I know it's switching. I check the integrated circuit control panel at the heating unit and find that the condenser bypasses the relay there. I get smart and pull the time delay switch and pull it apart. Cannot see anything wrong, but get resistance at all 3 terminals. Bypass this switch. Fixed the darn thing. Finally!! Am in Las Vegas and Yesterday we hit 112 on my patio ! Thanks for your help. It really jerked my chain when the tech told me to live with the noise, it was normal. LOL I did sand the contacts on the old contactor and keep the old t-stat for back-up parts. I doubt that I will replace the time delay because both t-stats are programmable with delay built in. If I get a rapid recycle, I'm sure we'll hear it. Thanks again.