If you’re like most people, your home is your refuge from the hot summer sun. You rely on your air conditioning to provide cool air all summer long. But what if your ac compressor starts to fail?
Suddenly, that refuge becomes a hot, stuffy, uncomfortable place to be. In this blog post, we will discuss the bad ac compressor symptoms to watch for and how you can fix them before they cause more damage.
What Is an Air Conditioner Compressor?
The AC compressor is a vital component of any air conditioner system. See this post for more details on what an HVAC compressor for air conditioners actually does in the process.
Its job is to compress refrigerant gas and pump it through the AC system. This enables the air conditioner to cool the air inside your home. The compressor is powered by an electric motor, and it typically has a life span of about 10-15 years.
A failing AC compressor can lead to decreased cooling capacity and increased energy consumption. Over time, the compressor can wear out and need to be replaced.
As a result, it’s important to have a trained HVAC technician inspect your AC system on a regular basis to ensure that everything is in working order. You may also want to stay alert for the signs and symptoms of a bad compressor in between inspections.
Signs & Symptoms of a Bad AC Compressor that Leads to Repairs
Before you find yourself stuck in the heat, look for these signs that you need AC compressor repair. Catching the signs of AC repair early can help you diagnose the problem and schedule AC repair in Arlington, TX, before the system breaks entirely, requiring expensive AC compressor replacement.
#1. Shaky Start-Up
Your AC compressor should turn on smoothly. If you notice that the compressor jerks when you turn it on, that’s a sign of something wrong inside the unit.
A shaky startup can happen when the failing compressor is overloaded or overheated, caused when components, such as the compressor switch or compressor clutch, aren’t properly lubricated or there’s a blockage somewhere inside the unit causing high pressure levels.
Another potential cause of compressor startup issues is a defective start capacitor. The start capacitor helps to supply the initial surge of power needed to start the compressor, and if it is defective, the compressor may not be able to start.
Finally, if the HVAC compressor is undersized for the air conditioner, it may also have difficulty starting. However, in the case of an air conditioning unit that’s too small, you will notice the problem right away.
Protip: Make sure your relay switch isn’t stuck, and is in good working order.
#2. No Cold Air
Your air conditioning unit should produce cool air relatively quickly. If you only receive warm air throughout your house, you’re running the air conditioning system for no reason. The hot air may even make your home more uncomfortable!
There are a few things that could be causing the problem, such as a failed capacitor, a refrigerant leak, or even filters and vents that desperately need cleaning. A refrigerant leak may occur if the supply lines have reached their life expectancy or a pest managed to chew on it.
You’ll need to diagnose the issue and then take the appropriate steps to repair it. In some cases, you may be able to do this yourself, but in other cases, you’ll need to call a professional.
#3. Odd Noises
Your AC compressor makes noises regularly. However, a new hissing, clanking, or grinding noise isn’t normal. Granted, heat pumps make loud noises so noises alone aren’t always signs of a bad ac compressor.
There are a few potential causes of strange noises coming from your AC compressor. It could be something as simple as a loose screw or nut, or it could be a more serious issue like a damaged bearing.
#4. Electrical Issues
If the circuit breaker trips frequently, it’s a sign that the compressor is overloading the electrical system. It can also be dangerous.
An electrical compressor problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including a blocked airflow or a dirty evaporator coil. In most cases, circuit breaker problems can be resolved by cleaning or repairing the affected component.
In some cases, you may need to upgrade your circuit board to satisfy the electricity requirements of your air conditioning compressor. However, if you’re experiencing electrical issues, this is among the leading home ac compressor failure symptoms to be aware of.
Preventing AC Compressor Failure
There are a few things that homeowners can do to help prevent compressor failure.
First, it is important to keep the area around the air conditioner clean and free of debris.
Second, the coils should be cleaned on a regular basis to ensure that they are able to function properly. Frozen coils can lead to expensive repairs you can avoid.
Finally, the AC unit should be serviced by a professional at least once a year to ensure that all of the parts are in good working order.
By following these simple tips, homeowners can help extend the life of their AC compressor and avoid costly repairs.
Getting AC Compressor Repair Vs. Getting AC Compressor Replacement
The compressor is the heart of the air conditioner, so when it isn’t working, the whole HVAC system breaks down. So, what do you do when your AC compressor needs repairs? Should you replace it or repair it?
The first thing you should do is call a professional HVAC technician to assess the situation. They will be able to tell you if the compressor can be repaired or if it needs to be replaced. There are a few things that they will take into consideration when making this determination, such as the make and model of your air conditioner, the severity of the damage, and the age of the unit.
In most cases, AC compressors can be repaired rather than replaced. However, if your unit is older than 10 years old or the damage is severe, then replacement may be your best option.
Repairing an AC compressor is typically less expensive than replacing it, but not always. However, repairs may not extend the life of your overall unit as much as a replacement will. So do the math.
Benefits of Getting a Replacement AC Compressor
Although the initial investment may be higher than simply repairing the old unit, there are several benefits that make replacing a faulty ac compressor worth the cost.
First, a new compressor will be more energy-efficient, which will save you money on your electric bill in the long run.
Second, a new compressor will likely have a longer warranty than your old one, giving you peace of mind in case something does go wrong.
Finally, a new air conditioner will simply work better than an outdated model, keeping your home cool and comfortable all summer long.
When weighed against the alternative, it is clear that investing in a new AC compressor is the smart choice once you’ve reached the end of your AC compressor’s life.
Getting HVAC Service in Arlington, TX
Do you have questions about your air compressor?
Contact the experts with 28 years of experience at All Master’s Plumbing for air conditioning service, including compressor repair, indoor air quality, and duct cleaning services in Arlington, TX and the surrounding area. We provide AC service for any type of system, including your heat pump or central air system.
All Master’s Plumbing can assist with all plumbing service needs, too! We’re you’re one-stop shop for all of your home comfort needs.
