Rheem Outdoor Unit Non-Operation / Contactor or Control Fault

Rheem air conditioner blows warm air in cooling mode; outdoor unit may not be running.

Advertisements

Safety Warning

This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.

If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.

Advertisements

Possible Causes

Failed contactor in outdoor unit, No 24 V signal from thermostat (Y call), Open high-pressure or low-pressure safety switch, Broken low-voltage wiring between air handler and condenser

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety first: Turn off power to the outdoor unit before opening the control panel.

  • Thermostat check: Ensure thermostat is set to COOL and temperature is below room temperature. Listen for a click and indoor blower operation.
  • Check contactor: With power off, inspect the contactor for burnt contacts or a stuck plunger. Replace if damaged.
  • Low-voltage wiring: Verify that the Y and C wires from the air handler/thermostat are securely connected at the outdoor unit.
  • Safety switches: Some Rheem units have high- and low-pressure switches in series with the contactor coil. A technician can test continuity and reset or replace if tripped or faulty.

Warning: Do not manually force the contactor closed with power on; this is dangerous.

Advertisements

Repair Difficulty

Hard 4/5

Required Part

Rheem Contactor / Low-Voltage Control Wiring / Pressure Switches
Check Price on Amazon

We may earn a commission from links on this page.

Advertisements