In this HVAC training video, we show the process of diagnosing a locked compressor in a 3D animation. A "locked" compressor is what we commonly call a compressor that fails to start and goes off on overload.

Topics covered include:

The internal components of a compressor
Refrigerant-cooled compressors
What causes a compressor to lock up
Operational overheating vs. overheated windings
Diagnostic steps
Thoroughly inspecting electrical components
Checking voltage
Verifying proper wiring
Testing the run capacitor
Using hard start kits to attempt to unlock compressors
The operation of potential relays and start capacitors
Soft start vs hard start compressor starting

Even if adding a hard start gets the compressor running again, there may still be an underlying issue that initially caused it to lock up. Proper diagnosis and communication with the customer is key. This 3D animation provides HVAC technicians critical knowledge for troubleshooting locked compressors in the field.

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