Of course, you would want to know where is the fuse in a window air conditioner especially if something wrong has happened to your AC unit. The fuse is the one that is responsible for protecting the unit’s electronic control.
You need to unplug your AC unit if its power supply isn’t good. Then, remove its cabinet cover. If you want to inspect your circuit board, using a multi-meter can help in finding out whether or not the fuse blows.
There are many more things that you should know about an air conditioner fuse. Most importantly, you should know the steps on how to find the fuse in your air conditioner.
So, without further ado, let’s start!
More About The Air Conditioner Fuse
During the hot summer season, your air conditioner needs to work harder in maintaining a cool temperature in your house. Sometimes, the unit can even overwork itself especially when you use it continuously for hours.
In such a case, your circuit breaker may trip or the AC fuse might blow. This is done by the system to prevent even worse damages to the AC. In other words, the blowing of fuse is only a cautionary measure in protecting the system.
The fuse is heat-sensitive. In case of power surges or if the unit excessively heat, it will cause the filament of the fuse to melt. Fuses are specifically designed to bear a fixed amperes load only.
So when the voltage exceeds this amperage capacity, the fuse will blow. In essence, if the fuse has blown, the power supply will be cut so that the unit will be saved from further damages.
How Can You Tell That The Fuse Blows Up?
The very first thing that you will notice if your AC fuse blows are that your outside AC unit isn’t doing anything at all. Commonly, you will just hear a trivial humming sound.
This sound is being produced since the AC keeps running even if no power is being supplied to it.
Steps To Find The Fuse In A Window Air Conditioner
It can be dangerous to check the fuse by yourself especially when you lack the knowledge or even do not know where is the fuse in the window air conditioner located.
If you are not sure what to do, it is best to contact an HVAC company from your local area to inspect the air conditioner for you. In case you want to do it yourself, nonetheless, it is best to use a voltmeter.
So, where is the fuse in a window air conditioner? Here are the steps below:
Step #1. Locating its disconnect box
The first thing to do in verifying whether or not the fuse has blown is to know where is the fuse located. Typically, it is color grey and is mounted close to the outdoor unit.
Step #2. Locate the cables
Swing or lift both the inner and outer cover to open the disconnect box. Doing so will expose the wires inside it. You need to locate the outgoing load as well as the incoming line wires. Be cautious in doing this since both cables are carrying 110 volts.
Step #3. Check your voltmeter
You need to check first whether or not the voltmeter functions properly. A zero volt reading should be displayed. Some models would also display an infinity.
Step #4. Test the wires
Now, attach the leads of the voltmeters onto the lugs that join the wires in step #2. The reading of the voltmeter must be ranging from 220 up to 240 volts. This signifies that the power comes from the fuses. However, when the voltmeter doesn’t read anything, it means that the fuse is not the issue.
What If You Does Not Have A Voltmeter?
However, not all own a voltmeter. But do not worry because you will still be able to check whether or not the fuse has blown. You can directly check its volt capacity from the disconnect box. Then, purchase a new one having the similar capacity and replace the old one. If the air conditioner already works then the fuse has blown indeed.
Some Tips To Remember
Always keep in mind the following tips:
- If you really want to check the fuse by yourself, you have to ensure that both your feet and hands are dry. Also, make sure that the floor is dry.
- In case the fuse of your AC unit keeps blowing, then another problem is needed to be addressed.
- Taking a photo of the disconnect box after you open it will help when it’s time to place the fuse again later on. This way you will be able to verify whether or not you have placed the wires or the fuse itself on where it should be.
- It is best to have an HVAC technician check your air conditioner unit. They will be able to find out the issue right away and solve it.
It’s A Wrap!
This post has given you information about the fuse of your AC unit. We have touched on how are you going to identify it has blown. By now, you probably know where is the fuse in a window air conditioner located as well.
In case the fuse has indeed blown, call a technician. But if you are knowledgeable and confident that you can do it yourself, why not. Just be extra cautious when doing so.