I am having a problem with my split system heat pump. It seems the fan intermittently stops working on the outside unit, while the compressor continues to run. I don't think that it is going into defrost mode, because the coils on the outer unit get frostier the longer it runs. If I flip the thermostat over from heat to cool, the frosty coils defrost, so I don't think its the reversing valve either. When it is doing this, and power is applied to the motor, it is difficult to turn(quick touch with a screwdriver thru the grate). When the power is off, the motor turns freely. If I turn it off and let it sit for a while, the motor will come on when restarted. I do think that the problem is getting worse, however.

I am fairly handy, but my knowledge is limited to the few heat pump books I was able to find at the library. In this lack of knowledge, I am theorizing that either the motor or capacitor is going bad. I'm sort of stubborn when it comes to calling/paying for help. My system is old (circa 1991), and I am not financially able to replace it yet.

Anybody have an idea what to try next? How can I check the capacitor/motor?

Thanks,
Jonathan

 

Does the capacitor look puffed out or a bulge can be bad. but most of the time if it is the capacitor and the fan should be on give it a push on the blades and it will run. Then its the cap . You say it locks up Id say its the motor and dont run the unit with out it. Make sure you get same RPM and CW or CCW, witch way it turns also a new cap for the new motor.

might try www.heatcoolparts.com

ED

 

I believe that the end play on the motor bushings are bad. With power off to the unit shake the fan blade and see if there is alot of play in the shaft.
No play from side to side and 3/32" play in and out.
If there is more get a new motor and run capacitor.

 

Thanks for both of your replies. I checked the capacitor with my ohm meter, and it seemed to charge/discharge normally, from what I have read, so I pulled both the motor and the capacitor. The motor shaft has all kinds of weeble wobble in it, and a good bit of end play. I'll be heading out to a few local stores tomorrow.

Freezing on electric heat in a snowstorm, using my electric meter for a fan. Can't wait to see my electric bill this month!

Thanks again!
Jonathan

 

Just bought a new motor and cap ($50 seems cheap!). The new motor allows me to choose direction. The guy I bought the motor from said I have a CCW fan. I'm pretty sure I remember air pushing out the top of my unit, which would make my old motor a CW unit.

How do I know for sure?

Jonathan

 

Just so when the fan runs it blowes out the top. Make sure it is the sam RPM


ED

 

Motor and capacitor installed. Heat pump warming the house nicely now. It runs much quieter too. Good for another 10 years, ha ha.

Thanks for all your help,
Jonathan