Humming electric motor starter/contactor

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Uncle Grumpy

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Sep 16, 2008
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I have a used compressor that's been sitting for a while. Now that it's running the starter/contactor hums loudly. The compressor runs well and cuts off when it's supposed to but I have to flip the breaker to stop the humming. Do starters have a life span?

I measure 247V at the receptacle, could that be the problem?
 
Hey Grumpy!:cheers:. Contactors can become noisy from dust collecting inside them. They(some) can be taken apart and cleaned out. They can build up enough internal resistance to be loud as well(wear out). Sometimes a new coil can be installed. Post up a picture of the offender.
 
The 247 is nominal for a single phase residential dwelling unit.;)
 
Thanks LC. I'll try and clean it first since I bought it a year ago without a cover on the enclosure. It's an older Allen-Bradley and I found a rebuilt coil from an electrical supply for $50.
 

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