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AMandaC37 · Apr 28, 2009, 10:40 AM

In the past 6 months we have had to replace windows, replace the dryer, get a new furnace and get a new hot water heater. I am hoping the air conditioner didn't decide to join the group of disasters.

We just recently turned our air on for the hot weather. Our inside fan is working, but the outside unti doesn't even come on. We did have guys in to install a new furnace in December and they put a digital thermostat in as well. Could it be that they forgot to hook something back up on the outdoor unti or the thermostat wasn't wired right? One of our friends said if it needed freon the outdoor unit would still run, it just wouldn't be cold air. Is that true? The unit has been in our townhouse for 12 years.

KISS · Apr 28, 2009, 10:54 AM

They may have turned it off outside. The disconnect on the wall outside usually has a pull disconnect in it. You pull it out and flip it over to turn the unit on and off outside. Always pull he disconnect when the AC is covered for the winter.

It may also be turned off in the breaker panel.

Let's hope your contract said to re-connect the current AC unit?

There is a low pressure switch that won't allow the AC to turn on when the pressure is below a certain value to avoid damage.

AMandaC37 · Apr 28, 2009, 11:00 AM

So would I be able to take a look at the box outside myself and know what you are explaining? I am familiar with looking at the breaker box. I called the company that did the furnace and they told me they would come out Thursday, but I would be chanrged unless it was their fault from back when they did the furnace. I always get so nervous when I don't know anything about what they are doing because they can cheat people. If it's something simple, I would like to take care of it without having them come out.

KISS · Apr 28, 2009, 11:26 AM

This is a picture of a "fusable disconnect". There are other kinds of fusable and fused disconnects. Usually they are not fused outside, but fused inside.

Non Fusible AC Disconnect Switch #DPU222RP by Eaton Electrical Cutler Hammer at HardwareAndTools.com

When you lift the cover, there should be a set of instructions on how to operate.

AMandaC37 · Apr 28, 2009, 11:59 AM

Okay, I saw this box on the wall next to my outside air conditioning unit. I believe it had an on/off switch that was still sitting at on. If that is a disconnect box, does that mean "on" would mean it is disconnected?

KISS · Apr 28, 2009, 12:09 PM

ON, means ON like a light switch would.

Can you take a picture and post using "Go advanced/manage attachments"? You can re-size images using IrfanView - Official Homepage - one of the most popular viewers worldwide.

AMandaC37 · Apr 28, 2009, 12:11 PM

I can take a picture and post it when I get home. I am at work now, but will be leaving in an hour.

KISS · Apr 28, 2009, 12:36 PM

I'm partying tonight. Going to one of these:

Shrimp Boil « Skip To My Lou

AMandaC37 · Apr 28, 2009, 01:25 PM

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KISS · Apr 28, 2009, 04:37 PM

Looks like it's a circuit breaker disconnect and it's on.

Check to make sure the breaker in the breaker box labeled AC is on as well.

AMandaC37 · Apr 28, 2009, 05:01 PM

Yes the circuit breaker is on for the AC. It's not looking simple for me, is it?

KISS · Apr 28, 2009, 06:53 PM

Nope. You've done the simple stuff.

AMandaC37 · Apr 28, 2009, 07:16 PM

Okay, so just one more question I have for you... is there any possibility that it could need freon?

KISS · Apr 28, 2009, 07:58 PM

Any number of things are possible at this point. They could have forgot to charge it. They could have introduced a leak.

It can also be electrical. Thermostat wiring or power. The latter probably least likely.

Try one more thing. Move the AC breakers both inside and outside from On to OFF and back to ON again.

AMandaC37 · May 1, 2009, 10:02 AM

They came to look at our AC yesterday. It was a faulty safety switch that I think they should have brought to our attention when they installed the furncae since they had to remove it and put it back on. Thanks for all of your help. I do not see your paypal link anymore.

KISS · May 1, 2009, 12:56 PM

Hi Amanda. Glad it was a simple fix.

To access the Paypal link, click on KeepItSimpleStupid on the upper left hand side of this post. There will be another link called "Support keepItSimpleStupid". Click that.

There is another way that gives a link, but it's a dead one and it hasn't been fixed.