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All brands · Refrigeration troubleshooting

Overheating / burnout, metal chips in system

What is going on

Possible causes and checks for: overheating / burnout, metal chips in system.

Likely causes

  • No cooling vapor (starved, low charge), lack of oil, contaminated oil (acid), running on tripped-and-reset protectors without fixing cause

Check in this order

  1. Suction superheat at compressor, oil level/sight glass, acid test, filter-driers, find root cause before resetting

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Source: General HVAC service practice — verify per model. Written in our own words; check the manual for your exact model.

For licensed technicians. Gas, electrical and refrigerant work must be done by a qualified, licensed person. Shut off power and gas before servicing, never bypass a safety control, and follow the manufacturer’s manual for the exact model; it and local codes always take priority. HVACopedia is not affiliated with any manufacturer; brand and model names only identify the equipment.