Amp readings on DuoTherm heat pump 15000 btu
My AC is acting up like it is cutting off on some sort of overload but the compressor running amps are only between 8 and 9 while it runs. So it doesn't seem too high but the puzzle to me is that even...
Forum Discussion
Golden_HVAC wrote:
A amp draw less than 10 amps might indicate a low freon charge.
Maybe, maybe not.
The internal connection between the compressor motor and the vanes can fail giving you a very low amperage draw because there is literally no load on the motor. Low or no charge can also cause that and it can be checked with a clamp-on meter. There is a spec plate that tells what the running LRA, amount of charge, etc. You'll have to remove the lower cover to see it.
The compressor amperage listed is based on a correct charge and an ambient temperature(outside) of 95 degrees. For every 10 degrees above 95 degrees, add 1 amp to the reading. For every 10 degrees below 95, subtract 1 amp. You may have to interpolate for something in between, but it's not rocket science. For example, if the sticker says the compressor draws 9A, then the clamp-on should read 9A if the ambient is 95 degrees, 9.5A if it's 100 degrees. and 8.5A if it;s 90 degrees. it's a simple accurate check to tell if the unit is properly charged without tapping into it to connect gauges. Once you do that, you gave a hole to repair and you have to recharge whether you needed to or not. The difference in amp draw between a unit with a low charge will be significantly different than one that has lost it's charge. These units only use a pound of freon, so a leak will probably lose all of it.
