Compressor capacitor motor won't start
Compressor capacitor motor won't start
(OP)
I have a small capacitor start compressor that when last I tried to use it, the motor sounds and looks like it is trying to turn over, but even with no air pressure to pump against won't rotate more than a couple of degrees, and will trip out the circuit breaker after only about 5 seconds. It has two capacitors, I assume one for starting and one for running. I took apart and do not detect any burned components or windings. How do I check to see if capacitors are working before I chuck it.





RE: Compressor capacitor motor won't start
More appropriate site
http://www.smokstak.com/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=6
RE: Compressor capacitor motor won't start
RE: Compressor capacitor motor won't start
Please post more details like motor nameplate, cap sizes etc.
RE: Compressor capacitor motor won't start
RE: Compressor capacitor motor won't start
A 100W lamp in series with the capacitor will do the same thing and also test the capacitor. Test no more than a couple seconds.
RE: Compressor capacitor motor won't start
RE: Compressor capacitor motor won't start
Your problem is most likely an open starting switch.
Bill
--------------------
"Why not the best?"
Jimmy Carter
RE: Compressor capacitor motor won't start
The capacitors (both start and run) cause a phase shift between the current in the main and start windings. This increases torque available to start and maintain the load.
Without the start winding, there is no continuous torque, just an oscillation. Without the capacitors, the torque produced by the starting winding would be much lower.
RE: Compressor capacitor motor won't start