An air conditioner’s compressor is a major component that can wear down and eventually need to be replaced. With proper maintenance, a compressor can last ten years or more. However, it is not uncommon for the air conditioner to require a compressor replacement during the life time of the unit. Hal Mechanical will share some common signs or symptoms of a failing compressor so you can know when to have the component replaced.
Function of Compressor in Air Conditioner System
An air conditioner’s compressor is responsible for the heat transfer that helps to create the cool air. The compressor pumps the refrigerant throughout the air conditioning system. If the refrigerant isn’t properly pumped through the system, the air conditioner will fail to cool the air. If the compressor fails, the entire cooling system will fail. A hot home isn’t the only problem. The overheating of the air conditioner is another. It is important to detect a failing or failed compressor and turn off the cooling system until the component can be replaced.
How Do I Know if My AC Compressor is Bad?
When the compressor begins to wear down or fails to operate, the compressor will develop certain symptoms or certain problems will develop. Here are some of the common sign to watch for in a failing compressor:
Loud and Odd Noises – When a compressor begins to make loud rattling or screeching noises, the compressor is damaged. Just before the compressor completely falls apart, it will vibrate dramatically. When you hear rattling, or detect vibrations, the compressor is failing. Loud screeching is the final noise the compressor will make. If you hear noises coming from the compressor turn the cooling system off and seek professional repairs right away.
Compressor Failing to Start – If the compressor is failing to start up, before jumping to the conclusion that it has failed, try resetting the air conditioning system’s breakers. If the air conditioner and its compressor still fails to start up, you will need to have the air conditioning system inspected. A number of things could have gone wrong. An HVAC technician will need to determine why the compressor has failed.
Air Conditioner Blowing Warm Air – If you notice the air conditioning system is only producing warm air, this could be a sign that the compressor has failed. As it is the job of the compressor to circulate the refrigerant that cools the air, when the air conditioner isn’t cooling the home down the compressor may be to blame. The compressor will need to be inspected and replaced if necessary.
Weak Airflow – Often as a compressor begins to fail, the airflow will become weaker and weaker. You will notice a low flow of cool air coming from the air vent but not enough to help cool the home down. The air conditioner will often run more cycles to attempt to cool the home down.
Central AC System Services in Aliante, Centennial, Desert Shores, Eldorado, Enterprise, Green Valley Ranch, Henderson, Lone Mountain Village, North LV, Peccole Ranch, Paradise, Silverado Ranch, Spring Valley, Summerlin, Sunrise Manor, Tuscany Village, Whitney, Winchester & Las Vegas Nevada
If your air conditioning system has developed one or more of these behaviors, turn the air conditioner off until an HVAC technician can come and inspect the compressor. If find you need air conditioning repairs or other services, contact Hal Mechanical today.
