If your Magic Chef air conditioner is not cooling, the problem usually starts with airflow or temperature control, not the sealed system. A clogged air filter is the most likely cause because restricted airflow cuts cooling capacity and can make the evaporator coil frost over. If the filter is clean, the user control and display board may not be letting the unit select the correct cooling temperature, especially if the thermistor tests good. Dirty condenser coils are another common reason for an AC not cooling, since built-up debris prevents the unit from releasing heat and can make the compressor run continuously. A failed dual run capacitor can keep the compressor or fan motor from running, which may leave the air conditioner blowing warm air. The compressor itself can fail, but check the overload protector and compressor capacitor first, and leave compressor replacement to a licensed technician. A bad thermistor can also cause a Magic Chef air conditioner not getting cold by sending the wrong temperature reading. Enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement part for your specific air conditioner.
01 - Magic Chef Air Conditioner Air Filter
If the air filter is clogged, air cannot flow properly through the air conditioner. This greatly reduces the cooling capacity of the air conditioner. In addition, if the air filter is clogged, the evaporator coils will frost over. Most air filters used in stand-alone air conditioners can be cleaned with soap and water. Only filters that are extremely clogged with debris or damaged will need to be replaced.
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02 - Magic Chef Air Conditioner User Control and Display Board
The user control and display board allows the user to operate the unit by selecting fan speeds and cooling temperatures. If the board is defective, it may not allow the unit to be set to a proper cooling temperature. If the temperature sensor or thermistor tests appropriately with a multimeter, it's possible the user control and display board is malfunctioning and will need to be replaced.
The condenser coils dissipate the heat as the refrigerant passes through the coils. If the condenser coils are dirty, they won’t be able to dissipate the heat as effectively. As debris builds up on the coils, the air conditioner will become less efficient, causing the air conditioner to work harder to cool down. If the coils are significantly dirty, the air conditioner will not be able to maintain the proper temperature, and the compressor will run continuously in an attempt to cool the room. Check the condenser coils to determine if they are dirty. Refer to owner's manual for cleaning instructions.
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04 - Magic Chef Air Conditioner Dual Run Capacitor
A dual run capacitor will power both the compressor and the fan motor. If the capacitor burns out, the compressor or fan motor will not run. To determine whether the capacitor is burned out, use a multimeter to test it for continuity. If the capacitor does not have continuity, replace it.
The compressor might be defective. However, this is not usually the case. Before replacing the compressor, be sure to check more commonly defective components—particularly the overload protector and the compressor capacitor. If the compressor is defective, it should only be replaced by a licensed technician.
The thermistor is a sensor connected to the control board that detects the temperature of the air. The resistance value of the thermistor changes in conjunction with the air temperature. If the air temperature rises, the resistance value will decrease. To determine if the thermistor is at fault, use a multimeter to test it for continuity. If the thermistor does not have continuity, or if the resistance of the thermistor does not change with a change in temperature, replace the thermistor. (To find specific temperature and resistance values, try checking your user’s manual.)
07 - Magic Chef Air Conditioner Condenser Fan Motor
To determine if the condenser fan motor is working, use a multimeter to test the incoming voltage to the motor. If the condenser fan motor is receiving the correct voltage, but the motor still won’t run, you should inspect the capacitor, if applicable, for any bulging or leaking. You can also use a multimeter to determine if the capacitor can hold and release its charge. If the capacitor appears to be in good condition, replace the condenser fan motor.