4 Causes of AC Compressor Turning On Then Off
Air conditioner or AC has become one of the electronic devices that is currently in high demand. Its placement in offices seems to be a necessity, to enhance comfort while working.
In its use, there are sometimes issues such as the AC suddenly turning off. Here are the causes of the AC compressor running briefly and then shutting down, along with the solutions.
1. AC Thermistor
For you users of this electronic device, it is important to recognize its various components. One of them is the thermistor, which is useful in managing the temperature of the AC unit automatically.
So, if this device experiences damage or is weak, your air conditioner's compressor may turn off by itself when powered on.
To determine if the AC thermistor is problematic, you can check it using a multimeter. This is done when the device is connected to the controller.
At room temperature of 25 degrees, you should receive 2.5 VDC. If you get 5 VDC, it means there is no resistance or ohm in the thermistor.
Conversely, if you receive 0 VDC, it indicates that there is a short in the thermistor device.
For controllers that operate using 3.3 V, the thermistor will cut off the 3.3 VDC current, so at room temperature of 25 degrees, you will then receive 1.7 VDC. The results can vary, depending on your room temperature.
2. PCB Module or Electronic Circuit
The cause of the AC compressor running briefly and then shutting down can also be due to damage to the PCB module or its electronic circuit.
What causes this part to be damaged is triggered by electrical voltage, which can be due to voltage spikes, short circuits, or lightning strikes, especially for AC units located in outdoor areas.
To anticipate damage to the PCB module, you can use a stabilizer. This will help prevent fluctuations in voltage, as voltage fluctuations are indeed very risky for all electronic devices.
Additionally, you should also prevent short circuits by checking the fuse in normal condition.
Read also: What Are the Signs of a Damaged Car AC Compressor?
3. On-Off Switch
It turns out that physical issues with the on-off switch can also be a cause of the AC compressor running briefly and then shutting down.
This can happen, for example, when you have opened and then replaced the cover on the indoor AC. In this case, the casing may pinch or press the on-off switch.
Moreover, the AC cable socket should not be overlooked. If its position is loose or problematic, it can make the air conditioning sensor less responsive.
Certainly, this condition can cause your AC to turn off suddenly or unexpectedly after being powered on for a short time.
4. Timer
In air conditioning units, there is a timer feature that can be used to determine how long the AC will be active. Sometimes, some users do not fully understand this feature, thus inadvertently activating it. Or there are also those who previously activated this feature but forgot to turn it off.
This feature can also be the cause of the AC compressor running briefly and then shutting down without your awareness. To ensure whether this feature is off or not, you can check the indicator light of the timer on the indoor AC. If the timer light is blinking, it indicates that the timer feature is currently active.