The most common Carrier/Bryant AC failure is a bad run capacitor — it accounts for roughly 1 in 3 summer service calls on Carrier equipment. The capacitor stores energy to keep the compressor and condenser fan running. When it fails, the outdoor unit hums but doesn't start, or the fan spins sluggishly. Check for a swollen or leaking capacitor through the access panel. Carrier units typically use a 45/5 MFD 440V dual run capacitor (Infinity/Performance) or 35/5 MFD (Comfort series). Shop Carrier capacitors →
If the capacitor looks fine, check the contactor — the switch that sends 240V to the compressor. Burned or pitted contacts prevent the compressor from engaging. Carrier condensers use 30A or 40A single-pole contactors. Shop Carrier contactors →
This is almost always the flame sensor. Carbon buildup on the sensor rod prevents the control board from detecting the flame, so it shuts down the gas valve as a safety measure. On Carrier 58MV, 58STA, and 59MN models, the flame sensor is a $15-$20 part that takes 10 minutes to replace — pull it out, clean with fine sandpaper or steel wool, and reinstall. If cleaning doesn't fix it, replace the sensor. Shop Carrier flame sensors →
If the inducer motor runs but the igniter never glows, the hot surface igniter has cracked. Carrier furnaces use silicon nitride igniters (LH33ZS004 is the most common). These last 3-5 years and are a $25-$30 DIY replacement. If the igniter glows but the gas doesn't flow, suspect the gas valve (Honeywell VR8205 series on most Carrier furnaces) or a failed control board (HK42FZ series). Shop Carrier igniters →
Carrier and Bryant furnaces use the same control board LED system. The most common patterns: 2 blinks = pressure switch stuck open (check inducer and vent), 3 blinks = pressure switch stuck closed, 4 blinks = open high-limit (check filter and airflow), 13 blinks = ignition lockout (check igniter and flame sensor). See the full error code chart above.
Willis Carrier invented modern air conditioning in 1902, and over a century later Carrier remains the global benchmark for HVAC engineering. Every component in our Carrier OEM inventory is manufactured to exact factory tolerances - ensuring rated efficiency, correct fit, and full warranty compliance on Infinity®, PerformanceT, and ComfortT equipment from 1985 to present.
We stock over 16,000 genuine Carrier OEM parts. Many interchange directly with Bryant and Payne — same parent company, same OEM specs. Need help? Ask Mike or use our free diagnostic tool.