Air Conditioning - AC not working

Our downstairs system--a 5-ton Frigidaire--stopped blowing cold air. It's about 5 years old and hasn't had problems before.

The compressor may or may not be running but it's definitely making a chattering noise I haven't heard before and the outside fan isn't running. Inside blower comes on as normal. I checked the outside breakers and they're closed.

I'm pretty handy around the house, but have never learned much about HVAC. Can someone suggest things I might check out?

Thanks!

angus

After reading a couple other posts, I was able to get the fan started with several hard pushes of a screwdriver. The blades do seem to be binding. I suppose if they bind with the power off, it's a bearing problem?

How can I tell if it's the bearings and not the motor itself?

Thanks.

angus

After reading a couple other posts, I was able to get the fan started with several hard pushes of a screwdriver. The blades do seem to be binding. I suppose if they bind with the power off, it's a bearing problem?

How can I tell if it's the bearings and not the motor itself?

Thanks.

angus

Not a huge expert but have some experience. In most cases if it is the bearings of the motor then the motor needs to be replaced. However, might be able to lubricate through lubrication ports on the motor housing but not sure if your motor has such. Search through the forum for "bearings" and you might find something.

Thanks, Mannerofspeakin I'll look over the owners manual, too ----- when I find it :)

angus