Welcome back to Osage Ambulance’s HVAC series! Today, we’re taking a look at condenser fans and potential issues that you might encounter with them.
Having trouble with something else? Try starting with our Ambulance HVAC Troubleshooting: Common Issues with Simple Fixes post or take a look at our blog to look through posts about other possible issues.
The system should have a minimum of 30 PSI (pounds per square inch) of pressure. If it is operating below that, you may have an issue with the condenser fans. At this point, you should consider the following possible areas of concern.
- Loose Drive Belt: Check the drive belt for abnormal oscillations and adjust tension as necessary until the problem resolves.
- Internal Compression Malfunction: Inspect the drive belt for any slipping. If this is happening, you may need to replace the compressor.
Several issues with the condenser fans can be caused by the magnetic clutch. After inspecting the drive belt for any unusual oscillations or slipping, please inspect the magnetic clutch.
- Low Battery Voltage: If you notice the clutch slipping, please start by recharging the battery.
- Oil on the Clutch Surface: The clutch slipping can be caused by oil residue on the surface. Inspect the magnetic clutch face for any visible signs of oil. If you notice these, begin by cleaning the surface as thoroughly as possible. If this does not fix the issue, you may need to replace the clutch face.
- Faulty Coil: If you have charged the battery and checked the face for any signs of oil residue, and you still notice issues with the clutch slipping, then your issue may be caused by a faulty coil. At this stage, you should move on to replacing the magnetic clutch entirely.
- Excessive Clearance Between the Clutch Disk: Look out for any clinging on the clutch plate when pushed. Make sure to check the clutch gap according to your unit’s specification to confirm the extra clearance. At that point, adjust the clearance back to the unit’s specification or replace the clutch.
- Open Coil: If the clutch does not engage, try connecting a circuit tester between the coil terminals. If there is no reading on the circuit tester, you will need to replace the coils.
- Broken Wiring or Poor Grounds: If the clutch will not engage at all, inspect the ground connections for any damaged or misplaced wiring. Adjust the wiring to ensure secure connections as necessary and replace any damaged wires.
- Wiring Harness Components: Test the conductance of the pressure switch and thermostat to ensure that both are up to standards. Refer to the wiring diagram in your operations manual and replace any defective parts as necessary.
- Broken Wiring or Bad Connection: Check the wire connections at both the fan motors and the drier mounted relay, ensuring that all wires are secure and intact. Adjust, repair, or replace any wires as necessary.
- Bad Relay: To check the relay, test the conductance of relay power in from the switch, the power coming in from the circuit breaker, and the power going out to the fans. If you notice any issues in the conductance of these points, you will need to replace the relay.
Still Having Trouble?
Feel free to reach out to us! Check out our contact page for a list of contact options. We’d be happy to assist you with any repairs or replacements that you might need.
