Air Conditioning - I suspect a compressor failure... but

I want to make sure!

When I apply power to the condensing unit, it hums for just a second then nothing. I am assuming this is a compressor burnout.

Will it do this if there is a low pressure condition, or otherwise, etc?

If so, I need to troubleshoot further.

Thanks!

Your symptoms are more likely a bad capacitor.

Upon further examination, I found a wire that had become detached from the compressor.

It is working fine now!

Good work. Did the wire burn off ?

Yes, it did seem to have burned off. I put a connector on there with a more positive contact mechanism. I need to do the other two that way also.

is this a sign of more trouble? Over amp situation?

Hard to say. You would have to get an ammeter to know more. That would be a worst case scenario. Higher amps can be caused by mechanical or electrical problems with the compressor. Other times, the connections develop resistance from moisture and corrosion. The Term-lock and Quik-lug connectors work well with the latter being easier to install (usually). If the compressor is developing problems, you will know in the not too distant future. On the other hand, I have seen this type of repair last for years.

I suggest you check the capacitor or just replace it. A weak capacitor can cause harder starting and higher amps.