Common Issues with AC Compressors

Your air compressor is like the heart of your AC unit, circulating the refrigerant necessary for heat exchange through the system. Our skilled ac repair contractors know it is arguably the most important – and definitely the most expensive – component of your home air conditioner. Without it, your system cannot cool your home and keep you comfortable.

How Your AC Compressor Works

Powered by a motor, your AC compressor raises the temperature and pressure of gaseous refrigerant in the system, increasing it to move heat from the evaporator coil inside your home to the outdoor condenser coil. As the condenser cools down the hot refrigerant, turning the refrigerant vapor into a liquid, heat is released. The process is repeated, exchanging heat until your home reaches the desired temperature.

Common Causes Of AC Compressor Problems

Your AC compressor is an expensive component of your system – but not all causes of compressor issues require costly fixes. That’s why scheduling fast home ac repair service for potential compressor issues is critical. What common AC compressor issues should you watch out for?

1. Dirty coils

Our HVAC system technicians frequently respond to calls for dirty coils. When filth builds up on this system component, the system can’t release enough heat. Over time, increased heat and pressure in the system lead to compressor failure.

2. Too much refrigerant

If an unqualified HVAC contractor fills your system with too much refrigerant (or the wrong refrigerant), permanent damage to your AC compressor could result.

3. Refrigerant leaks

When system components wear out and leaks cause refrigerant levels to drop, your system has to work harder to push freon through the system, eventually wearing out the compressor.

4. Improper oil lubricant levels

As with refrigerant, when too much or not enough oil is used, compressor damage could result.

5. Improperly sized suction lines

An inexperienced technician installing improperly sized suction lines can cause premature compressor failure.

6. Blocked suction lines

Blocked suction lines will limit the cooling capacity of your air conditioner. If left unchecked, the increase in pressure and temperature could lead to premature compressor failure.

7. Electrical issues

Electrical issues like acid buildup, damaged fuses, and worn wiring can cause permanent compressor damage. However, these issues are easily thwarted with a routine annual air conditioning system inspection.

Don’t Ignore These Signs Of AC Compressor Failure

• HVAC system blows warm air
• Compressor doesn’t turn on/clutch not moving
• Vibration at system startup
• Strange or loud noises from the outdoor unit
• Circuit breaker frequently trips when AC is running (compressor drawing excess current)

Don’t wait to address signs of AC compressor failure. Fixing the underlying problem is far less costly than AC compressor or system replacement.

Are you looking for local HVAC companies to determine if your compressor is failing you? Contact H & H Heating & Air Conditioning to schedule fast, affordable service today.

This blog was originally posted on https://www.delcohvac.com/blog/common-issues-with-ac-compressors/