AC humming, not working

Hi,
Last night I turned the AC on for the first time since last Fall. I noticed that after an hour it was not getting cooler in the house. I went outside and saw the fan wasn't spinning and there was a loud humming sound. After googling the situation I used a stick to turn the fan. It started spinning and continued to spin so I guess I was glad that this isn't the motor. I went back in the house but it was still not blowing cold air even after 15 minutes. I know nothing about AC units, I'm just trying to see if this is something that is going to cost a little or a lot. 2 years ago the motor had to be replaced. This is a 9 year old Carrier unit and I'm so fed up with it. Even though the motor was under the 10 year warranty, the labor cost 700 dollars. The guy was here 2 years ago for 7 hours or so in the sweltering DC August heat. What might be the problem this time? Thank you

 

It could be as simple as a needing a new capacitor for the motor. If you have a multi meter that can test capacitance you can check it or since they're only about $20 you could just replace it. If you call a professional you'll have $75+ for the service call and maybe $50 for the part if that's all it is.

 

Test the capacitor. Probably a dual for the condenser fan and compressor.
Why was someone there for 7 hours for a fan motor? Doesn’t sound right.

 

7 hours and $700, Don't call that guy again.

 

I'm used to an $85 service call fee and then the price of parts though some are now charging a "diagnostic fee" in addition to the base service charge.