Why Does My Indoor AC Unit Run When the Outdoor Unit Doesn’t?
As summer peaks and the heat intensifies, air conditioning becomes essential for comfort. You may have experienced the common problem of an air conditioning unit malfunctioning. Some people face issues where their cooling system outside AC unit not running but inside is. This issue has multiple possible explanations. In this article from Van Varick & Sons, we will guide you through the necessary steps to address this, ensuring your air conditioning system runs smoothly again.
Why Is My Outside AC Unit Not Running But Inside Is?
Cooling systems rely on the synchronized operation of indoor and outdoor units to effectively lower indoor temperatures. If one unit fails to operate, your home will remain warm regardless of how long the system runs. To diagnose an inactive outdoor unit, consider the following two methods:
No Sound from the Air Conditioner Condenser
Check for any sound from the condenser. While many models are designed to run quietly, a functioning unit should emit a soft hum. A complete lack of noise indicates that the motors and compressors may not be operating correctly.
Heat Emission from the Indoor Air Handler
Feel the air from the air conditioner’s indoor unit. If it expels warm air instead of cool air, this suggests the outdoor unit isn’t performing its cooling duty. Essentially, hot summer air circulates without the equipment cooling it down.
Reasons An Outdoor Air Conditioner Fan Can Malfunction
The issue often boils down to a fan malfunction—where the blades remain stationary while other components of the outdoor unit function normally. This can occur regardless of regular maintenance, such as changing air filters. Here are the primary causes the fan might stop spinning:
Insufficient Power Supply to the Air Conditioner
The fan motors require adequate electricity to function. If they receive insufficient power, they will fail to operate correctly. Pinpointing the exact cause of this power deficiency can be challenging in different cases. It’s best to have a qualified HVAC technician accurately evaluate and diagnose the issue.
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Issues with the AC Unit Contactor
The contractor plays a crucial role in operating the fan motor. Any malfunction within this component can halt the fan blades. Repair attempts by those unfamiliar with HVAC systems can result in further damage, so it is recommended to consult a professional immediately for a dependable repair.
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Cooling System Fan Motor Burnout
Fan motors are prone to burnout from excessive strain. They also fall to general wear and tear as time passes. Systems that lack regular maintenance are more likely to experience such failures prematurely. Routine check-ups are vital to identify and resolve issues early, helping to prevent costly repairs later on.
Faulty AC Capacitors
Failure of the outside fan can often be linked to faulty capacitors. These components function similarly to batteries, storing the energy needed to keep the fan blades in motion. This also means that they lose their energy-storing abilities after heavy use. Over time, capacitors can degrade from extensive use, exposure to high temperatures, and power fluctuations. A failed capacitor cannot supply the necessary power to the fan.
You can gently nudge the blades using a long wooden stick. Slide it through the fan grate to assess if a faulty capacitor is an issue. If the blades begin to rotate from this slight push, you likely have a bad capacitor. However, the fan won’t spin again, even if this temporary fix gets the fan moving the first few times. Due to the high voltage and delicate nature of the components involved, professionals should handle capacitor replacement.
Debris on the Air Conditioning System’s Axle
If manually nudging the blades with a stick doesn’t easily initiate movement, inspect the fan axle for debris. Dirt could also be accumulating in the motor’s bearings, hindering smooth operation. Hire a technician to disassemble and thoroughly clean all the components to ensure unobstructed functionality.
What If The Outside Air Conditioning Unit Isn’t Functioning?
Occasionally, the problem with an air conditioning system extends beyond merely inactive fans, as the entire exterior unit may shut down. This situation can significantly disrupt home comfort, often necessitating intervention from skilled technicians. The discomfort of enduring the summer heat without a functional AC unit is considerable, and prompt action is essential to address the issue. We will discuss the potential causes behind such abrupt failures below.
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Incorrect Air Conditioner Thermostat Settings
Before examining more severe issues, check out the following:
- Verify the foundational settings of your air conditioning system.
- Start with the thermostat: it might be that the settings were inadvertently altered to a warmer temperature.
- Lower the temperature setting to test if this corrects the issue.
Additionally, ensure that the thermostat is operational. If it appears unpowered, a simple battery replacement may be all that’s required to get your system up and running again.
Dirty Outdoor AC Compressor Unit
If the outdoor unit accumulates too much dirt, the compressors may overheat. A dense layer of dust can inhibit heat from dissipating into the surrounding air. If the system cannot tolerate overheating, it shuts down to prevent damage. Check if dirt and debris are excessive. Always turn off and disconnect the power before attempting to clean the unit. Consider hiring a professional HVAC contractor for safe and thorough cleaning.
Air Conditioner Safety Switch Activation
Air conditioning units are equipped with safety switches that automatically shut off the outdoor unit if a potential hazard is detected. To reset these switches, you can turn off the system at the thermostat or the main breaker. After pausing for about a minute, reactivate the system and check if it resumes normal operation. If the system still fails to function properly after these steps, it may be necessary to engage a professional for detailed troubleshooting.
Tripped AC Circuit Breaker
If your region has recently experienced a thunderstorm, the circuit breakers in your home may have tripped due to power surges. Inspect your circuit panel to determine if this is the case why you start to notice your outside ac unit not running but inside is. Reset any tripped breakers by turning them off and then back on. Check for blown fuses in older homes equipped with a fuse box and replace them as necessary.
Moreover, if your air conditioning system includes a fuse in the shut-off box, contact a technician for replacement. Should the breakers continue to trip repeatedly, this could indicate a more serious underlying electrical issue, requiring the expertise of a licensed electrician.
Air Conditioner Compressor Failure
The compressor is the most pivotal component of any air conditioning system, tasked with circulating the refrigerant throughout the system at the correct pressure. Should the compressor fail, the air conditioner will no longer be able to cool the air effectively.
Signs of a failing compressor include stuttering starts or unusually loud noises upon activation. Over time, a failing compressor may stop turning on altogether. Repairing or replacing a compressor is expensive and sometimes necessitates upgrading the entire system.
Conclusion
It may be perplexing to discover your outside AC unit not running but inside is. An initial inspection could quickly pinpoint a probable cause, allowing for an easy resolution. The issue may be more intricate than it appears, possibly beyond the average homeowner’s skill set.
Contact experienced HVAC technicians promptly to diagnose and resolve the problem. They’ll ensure your air conditioner is restored to optimal performance. Additionally, remember to schedule annual maintenance for your central air conditioning system to prevent issues and maintain efficiency and comfort.
Call Van Varick & Sons for Expert HVAC Services
Van Varick & Sons is your go-to source for top-tier heating and cooling solutions across Northern New Jersey. Our team comprises highly qualified technicians who provide excellent HVAC tune-ups, repairs, installations, and replacements. Each technician is thoroughly trained and professionally certified, bringing vast knowledge and expertise to every service call.
We pride ourselves on offering the most affordable costs for heating and cooling services in the area. Our maintenance solutions are made to enhance your comfort, boost your system’s energy efficiency, and minimize your heating and cooling expenses. Whether you need a repair or a complete system overhaul, Van Varick & Sons can recommend and install the perfect solution for your home, ensuring it fits your budget.
We stand behind our work with a robust satisfaction guarantee. Call Van Varick & Sons today to schedule your free, in-home estimate and experience our dedication to excellence first-hand.
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