A/C problems

[scouser]

I have a maxum 3100 SCR (2003). The compressor for the A/C runs continuously as soon as the breaker is turned on. It eventually overheats and trips the breaker.
Any suggestions?
Thanks, Scouser

[yorkcoparamedic]

How long has this been going on? Are you cycling raw cooling water? Any warning reverse polarity lights on the panel? Before it trips, does the air start to get cool? What type and model of A/C do you have?

Charles

[scouser]

Hi Charles, Thanks for the reply.... To answer your questions:
1) worked fine before winterization. Just started to be a problem since we re-commissioned.
2) Sea water is cycling
3) No reverse polarity issues. All other electronics working fine.
4) Seems to work 'OK' (but only OK) until it trips. Problem seems to be that the compressor runs as soon as I turn on the breaker, but soon after that the temperature differential causes the system to kick in causing the seawater to cycle and heat/cool to come out.... starts pretty weak, but gets stronger as time goes on. Then, when the heat/AC has satisfied the thermostat, everything shuts down except the Compressor, which keeps running until it trips the breaker....
5) It is an SMX II control system on a crusair unit.
Hope that helps. I really appreciate your help.
Tom

[yorkcoparamedic]

Sorry it took so long to get back to you! We took a cruise down the bay to Virgina Beach for two weeks.

I can think of three causes for your problem off hand.
1. DIRTY AIR FILTER.
2. Water flow restriction.
3. Temp sensor or Temp sensor wire connection.

Remove and clean the air filter and screen w/ hot water and mild soap. Let it air dry, do not hand dry or use air compessor. Reinstall and try again.

Next, make sure intake t-hall valve is completely open. Then check/empty your strainer and check for a blockage to the output of the strainer. Then get a large bucket and take the water input hose off the a/c unit and place into bucket. Turn the system on or jump wire the intake pump and check the water is flowing forcefully. (two person job, bucket will fill fast) If all is well reconnect and then flow water through system and check that its discharging overboard at the same rate or slightly slower.

Finally, Did you run antifreeze through the system during the winter. If not the temp sensor may have been damaged by some ice forming in the lines. Also remove the temp sensor wire harness and make sure that you have a good clean connection and pins are intact and not corroding.

After that I would consult the pros, you may have to change the compressor. Easy job but costly!

If you have any other questions, just ask.

Charles

[scouser]

Thanks Charles.... Appreciate your help...
Actually, it was the Triac in the controller... It failed closed, and so switched the compressor on as soon as power was applied... The compressor just ran until it tripped the breaker...
Piece of cake to replace..
Tom

[yorkcoparamedic]

Glad to hear it was an easy fix! I have seen problems like yours in the past, but it was not the controller. Nice tid bit to remember.

Charles