Coming home to an 85-degree house is extraordinarily frustrating, especially when you actually have (and use) AC.
Here's what to know
In a thread on Reddit's r/HVACAdvice, the original poster said, "Just came home to an 85 degree house with my unit not working and just humming," and noted that the earliest company they contacted couldn't make it out for another six days.
The OP then asked, "Just wondering if there is anything I can at least try even if it's a 1 in a million chance to work. Thanks."
(Click here if the embedded video does not appear.)
Several replies centered on a "failed run capacitor." One wrote, "sounds like capacitor is no good." Others immediately jumped in to agree. Another added, "This is it. The run capacitor is the culprit. $20 at Amazon depending on the brand and fully installable by yourself if you are even a slight bit handy."
The OP later gave several updates on the situation. The first explained that they "got a lead on a guy who does [HVAC] on the side." In the second update, OP confirmed that "most of you were right. It was the capacitor. He changed that out and cleaned the dirty coils. Cost me $200."
So, this story is a clear example that an outdoor unit that hums but does not start is not necessarily a sign that the whole system is finished. Of course, Internet comments do not replace a licensed technician, but they can help people recognize a common failure and avoid assuming the worst right away.
Where can I learn more?
These stories look at AC breakdowns, maintenance, and repair quotes.
Save $10,000 on solar panels without even sharing your phone number Want to go solar but not sure who to trust? EnergySage has your back with free and transparent quotes from fully vetted providers in your area. To get started, just answer a few questions about your home — no phone number required. Within a day or two, EnergySage will email you the best options for your needs, and their expert advisers can help you compare quotes and pick a winner. Solar panels can save you more than $50k over their 25-year lifespan, and EnergySage can help you save as much as $10k on installation. Which begs the question — isn't that worth an email or two? |
• In California, a homeowner with total AC failure found honest HVAC advice and saved hundreds.
• A simple AC drain cleaning step helped homeowners restore cooling and avoid pricey service calls.
• In Houston, a homeowner's $16,000 AC quote raised hard questions about basic repair costs.
Get TCD's free newsletters for easy tips, smart advice, and a chance to earn $5,000 toward home upgrades. To see more stories like this one, change your Google preferences here.
