HVACopediaAll brands · Refrigeration troubleshooting
Unit runs excessively long or continuously
What is going on
Possible causes and checks for: unit runs excessively long or continuously.
Likely causes
- Low charge
- Control contacts stuck/frozen closed
- Excessive load or poor insulation
- System undersized
- Iced evaporator
- Restriction
- Dirty condenser
- Dirty filter
- Low airflow
Check in this order
- Fix leak, recharge
- Clean contacts/replace control
- Find and fix the load/insulation fault
- Larger system
- Defrost
- Locate and remove restriction
- Clean condenser
- Clean/replace filter
- Replace filter, clean evaporator, check motor speed
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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.