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CJT

wrote:

I'm trying to get an idea of what is causing a problem with my AC unit.
I'm in an apartment condo that has a central unit that heats and
cools. The problem is that when the AC kicks in, the unit cools (the
coils get condensation on them and get cool). After a while, the unit
no longer cools anymore but you can still hear the condenser running.
If you turn the unit off, wait a while and then turn it back on the
same thing happens...it cools for a little while and then doesn't. It
never satisfies the thermostat so it doesn't stop unless I turn the
temp up and then you can hear the condenser stop.

The unit is about 10 - 15 years old, has been cleaned and has a new
filter. Any idea whether I'm looking at a coolant leak, a condenser
problem or something else here?

Thanks,
Mark

My guess is the compressor is overheating and thermal protection is
turning it off. When it cools, the protector resets.

Lubrication might help (although most are permanently lubricated
nowadays), as might clearing anything blocking air flow around the
compressor (e.g. debris and vegetation). I would also check that
the voltage at the compressor is correct -- too low or too high can
cause overheating. And you might also try replacing the run capacitor
if it has one, especially given its age. Beyond that, it's probably a
forklift job (i.e. replacement).

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