When a compressor failure threatens the comfort of an entire house
A homeowner in Sainte-Thérèse , on the North Shore of Montreal , recently contacted us about a complete breakdown of a Trane central heat pump . After a trouble-free winter, the outdoor unit now refused to start. No compressor noise, not even the usual slight hum. At AirGreen , we know that this type of symptom requires rapid and methodical intervention , as it can be caused by anything from a simple relay to a major failure.
In-depth inspection: from electrical control to compressor diagnosis
Upon our arrival, we carried out a complete diagnosis of the HVAC system:
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Checking the supply voltage at the circuit breaker and main contactor.
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Inspection of the compressor and fan start capacitor .
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Check refrigerant pressures and wiring condition between indoor and outdoor unit.
Our measurements quickly revealed that the compressor's start capacitor had lost nearly 70% of its rated capacity. Without this key component, the compressor motor fails to start, causing total cooling failure .
Intervention: replacement of the capacitor and verification of the complete system
The AirGreen team replaced the starting capacitor with a genuine Trane part of the same value and electrical compatibility. Before restarting, we:
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Cleaned the inside of the outdoor condenser to remove accumulated debris and leaves.
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Checked the value of the power contactor , sometimes damaged during power surges.
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Checked the R-410A refrigerant charge , confirming an optimal level without leaks.
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Measured the compressor's electrical current to ensure normal operation after replacement.
Once everything was tested, the system restarted without any problems: stable pressure, correct discharge temperature, and optimal air flow .
Result: comfort restored and energy efficiency restored
Within minutes of restarting, the house was cool and quiet again . The customer, who had been worried about replacing the entire system, was relieved to learn that the cause was simply a worn capacitor , a component that is both affordable and common to replace.
We then carried out a complete preventive maintenance , including cleaning the coils and checking the blowing temperature, to ensure maximum performance all summer long .
Why Trane condensers wear out over time
Trane central heat pumps are renowned for their robustness, but electrolytic capacitors age naturally:
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Voltage fluctuations reduce their lifespan.
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Heat buildup in the casing can accelerate their degradation.
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Poor ventilation around the compressor also promotes overheating.
To avoid these unexpected breakdowns, we recommend annual AirGreen maintenance , which includes a capacitor and main contactor capacitance test.
AirGreen: HVAC expertise serving the North Shore
At AirGreen , every service call is treated with the same rigor, whether it's a component replacement or a complex compressor repair .
Our certified technicians respond quickly in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore and the South Shore , for all types of systems:
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Central and wall-mounted heat pumps
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Air conditioners
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Ducted and multi-zone systems
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Electric furnaces and HVAC accessories
A simple intervention, a big impact on sustainability
This case in Sainte-Thérèse illustrates a fundamental principle of the profession: a small defective part can immobilize an entire system . Through rigorous diagnosis and preventive maintenance , AirGreen helps its customers avoid costly replacements and extend the life of their Trane and other major brand equipment.