Air Conditioning Services: Common Issues With Your AC's Compressor

24 March 2022
 Categories: , Blog

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A functioning cooling unit keeps your indoor space comfortable during the hot, humid summers. Ideally, your air conditioner depends on certain components to work correctly. These components include the compressor. This part presses against the refrigerant, aiding in the cooling process. When your compressor has minor mishaps, consider AC repair immediately. Here are common issues you can expect with your compressor.  

Contaminants

The compressor is located outside your home. For this reason, it can trap contaminants such as dirt, dust, soot, bird droppings, and insects. When these particles block the compressor, it will strain to work. Such pollutants can severely damage your compressor and the entire cooling unit.

Fortunately, you can mitigate this risk by hiring a technician. The expert will clean your compressor and fix any lurking problems in the AC.

Low Refrigerant

Your air conditioner might fail to cool your indoor space if the refrigerant levels are low. In addition, this cooling substance can leak if there are cracks within your AC. When that happens, the pressure reduces, and your compressor overworks.

This problem can force the compressor to push the refrigerant harder than it should, causing a compressor malfunction. A professional can top up the refrigerant and fix any leaks within the cooling system.

Electrical Mishaps

Your compressor operates with different electrical components. It's common for wiring to rust or fray, which affects the compressor's functioning. Any loose connections can also cause a malfunction. Besides this, capacitors need to be in prime condition to start and run the compressor.

If capacitors get burnt out due to electrical issues, the compressor will fail to operate. Please pay close attention to your AC, and when it shuts down, alert a technician immediately. The issue could originate from wiring and other power mishaps.

Loud Noises

When the compressor is in trouble, it can notify you using disruptive noises. The sounds could be in various forms:

  • Banging indicates a broken compressor. 
  • Squealing usually signals high pressure in the unit. 
  • A hissing sound may be a symptom of leaking refrigerant. 

If the noises persist, it's time to fix the underlying problems before they get out of hand.

Such sounds can be accompanied by vibrations and banging, which means that your compressor could fail at any moment. However, a technician can inspect the compressor and repair it to reduce the noise.

The above are typical issues your AC's compressor can present. If you encounter any of them, consider AC repair.

To learn more about air conditioning systems, contact an HVAC technician.