Non-soda...Air conditioner compressor question

[GreginNM]

OK guys...the window unit (large heat/cool) air conditioner in the master room of our "new" house has an issue, therefore I have an issue (if you can't hang meat in the room at night, the War Department is unhappy).  When I turn the unit on, the fan comes on and you can hear the compressor starter (?) hum in an attempt to start it.  It then stops, and repeats the process about every 20-30 seconds.  The compressor never starts up.

Does it sound like I need a 3-in-1, or is there something else I can do/check before calling a repairman?  I would rather not buy a new unit if it's an easy fix!   

[johnieG]

It's probably a bad compressor, but you can try a 3-in-1 booster, it can hurt anyway, but be sure to get the correct size. ( there are two ) see if you can determine what size compressor it has from the ID plate & match the HP (horse-power) rating to the starter booster ( 3-in-1) from your HVAC shop. most large window AC units already have a starter capacitor already you may just need to get a new one, but we're guessing here at this point until you look into the unit.

Quickest fix is to go & get a new window unit & be done with it, or move the "war" department into the freezer. ( just kidding)