Residence HVAC guys. Need help.

The Evil Twin

Well-known member

Equipment
L2501, LA526,
Jul 19, 2022
2,814
2,825
113
Virginia
That is indeed a 2 ton unit. For 12ga wire, you are well within the MCA at 55'. So voltage drop wouldn't be an issue.
A new cap doesn't mean it's a good cap. The microfarad rating should be equal to or slightly higher than the original. It would have to be tested to check it.
 
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GSD-Keegan

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Equipment
B2601 with Fel and Bh70 backhoe
Mar 6, 2021
611
808
93
Ontario, Canada
I uploaded a YouTube short just cuz I had it on my phone. It will do this buzzing about 5 times before timing out. This vid taken a couple months ago. I believe last time it acted up the fan was not running.

 
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DustyRusty

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2020 BX23S, BX2822 Snowblower, Curtis Deluxe Cab,
Nov 8, 2015
6,237
4,814
113
North East CT
That sounds like it is low on refrigerant. I had that problem once and it was an expensive repair.
 

The Evil Twin

Well-known member

Equipment
L2501, LA526,
Jul 19, 2022
2,814
2,825
113
Virginia
I looked up the wiring diagram for that unit. The fan and compressor use the same contactor to run. If the fan runs when the unit is making noise, the only thing would prevent the compressor from running is the internal overload in the compressor itself. If the fan is not running, the contactor is not pulling in (or not seating properly. Think of it like a light switch with 2 bulbs. The switch (contactor) sends power to 2 light bulbs. If the switch is closed, both bulbs get power. If only one bulb illuminates then it's a burnt out bulb. That's simple terms.
If it's the compressor internal overload, that could be capacitor, mechanical binding or voltage drop (not voltage drop from wire size/ length). If you feel comfortable doing so there are inexpensive power monitors you can install to watch voltage and amps when the unit starts. The unit needs at least 200v when it starts. It's normal for it to drop slightly. Just not below 200.
 
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GSD-Keegan

Well-known member

Equipment
B2601 with Fel and Bh70 backhoe
Mar 6, 2021
611
808
93
Ontario, Canada
Thanks so much for your effort and help Evil Twin. Much appreciated.
Internal load in the compressor- Is there a high pressure switch cut off? Or are you suggesting high pressures in the compressor itself, or a faulty motor running the pump?

I think you can understand my frustration as it has acted up pretty much since new, this no start is more than likely causing further damage and as time ticks on, it will soon be out of my pocket.

I will try to keep an ear and run outside when I hear it failing and check the fan operation.

I will be calling repair guy again tomorrow morning.
if you have a link to one of those power monitors would you mind posting it for me.
thanks again
 

The Evil Twin

Well-known member

Equipment
L2501, LA526,
Jul 19, 2022
2,814
2,825
113
Virginia
The overload I'm talking about is an electrical overload cut out internal to the compressor motor itself. It protects the motor from overcurrent situations. It could be overloaded by unequalized pressures, mechanical problems or power problems. Basically it keeps the compressor from over amping. It is self reset and can't be accessed since it is internal to the compressor.
I suggest reaching out to these guys to verify the Vue 3 will record volts. You would need a model that does volts and amps to monitor your AC unit for what you are troubleshooting.
 
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