What is likely wrong with a compressor if the resistance readings show infinite resistance from common to run and common to start?

What is likely wrong with a compressor if the resistance readings show infinite resistance from common to run and common to start?

• A. It has an open internal overload
• B. There is a short circuit in the windings
• C. The capacitor is malfunctioning
• D. It is low on refrigerant

Answer: (A)

If a compressor shows infinite resistance readings between common and run as well as between common and start, it indicates that there is a break in the continuity of the electrical windings within the compressor. This situation is typically caused by an open internal overload, which is a protective device designed to prevent excessive current and overheating. When the overload is open, it stops electricity from flowing through the windings, manifesting as infinite resistance. In this scenario, other options like short circuits in the windings would typically show low resistance instead of infinite, and malfunctioning capacitors usually lead to different symptoms, such as an inability to start the compressor or inconsistent operation, rather than purely open windings. Being low on refrigerant would affect the compressor's ability to operate efficiently rather than indicating an electrical fault, so the readings presented clearly point to an open internal overload as the most plausible issue.

If a compressor shows infinite resistance readings between common and run as well as between common and start, it indicates that there is a break in the continuity of the electrical windings within the compressor. This situation is typically caused by an open internal overload, which is a protective device designed to prevent excessive current and overheating. When the overload is open, it stops electricity from flowing through the windings, manifesting as infinite resistance.

In this scenario, other options like short circuits in the windings would typically show low resistance instead of infinite, and malfunctioning capacitors usually lead to different symptoms, such as an inability to start the compressor or inconsistent operation, rather than purely open windings. Being low on refrigerant would affect the compressor's ability to operate efficiently rather than indicating an electrical fault, so the readings presented clearly point to an open internal overload as the most plausible issue.