Ever wonder if your AC system is the cause of your high energy bill? The Power companies collectively say that your central AC system accounts for 50-60 percent of your entire power bill. The Compressor which is located inside the outdoor unit is the main consumer of power.
How Hard Is My Compressor Running
Finding out how hard your compressor is running is very simple. First you must locate the information panel on your outdoor unit. Look for the compressor RLA.
The RLA is the max Run Load Amps your compressor can take before if fails and causes a breakdown. According to the AC manufacturers the ideal amp draw for your AC system is 30-40 percent of your units RLA. The Carrier AC system pictured above has an RLA of 21.8 meaning ideally it should be running between 6.54 – 8.72 amps. In order to test your equipment’s amp draw you will need an amp meter if you do not own one I have provided a link to purchase a very affordable but reliable amp meter below.
Checking Amp Draw
In order to check your amp draw your system must be running. First remove the electrical panel door on your AC system. Next find the wire going from your compressor to your capacitor this wire is typically blue.
Turn your meter on and attach clamp to compressor wire only to test amp draw.
RLA- 21.8
Ideal Amps- 6.45 to 8.72
Lets See !
This Carrier system is running at 8.19 amps which means its running at manufacturer specifications.
What To Do If Your Amps Are High ?
Check Out My Tutorials Below To Help Lower Amp Draw And Increase Your AC System’s Efficiency !