What Should You Do If You Notice Signs Your AC Compressor Is Failing?
The compressor is the heart of your air conditioner. If it breaks down, you may end up spending a lot of money to get it fixed. In some cases, the only option is to replace the entire unit.
So if you notice warm temperatures in your home or loud noises coming from your AC compressor, it’s time to look closer. In case you notice anything unusual, call for professional help before it’s too late. Inspect the unit for the following clear signs your AC compressor is failing.
Your compressor is shaking and making a ticking noise when starting
A noisy air conditioning system is a sign of trouble. If the sound is coming from your compressor, it might be on its way to breaking down.
Before your compressor totally fails, it often makes a ticking or chattering noise when you start the unit. It indicates that your compressor finding it difficult to start. If left unattended, it could eventually damage expensive components and you may have to replace your compressor. It is easy to call for help when you first notice signs your AC compressor is failing.
It’s easy to fix if you identify it in time and call a HVAC professional. It’s caused by a faulty electrical relay switch. Replacing the old worn-out switch with a new one would solve the problem and save your compressor.
The circuit breaker trips when your compressor starts
A faulty compressor can result in circuit breaker tripping. It’s a safety check to refuse supply to your compressor when it starts drawing too much power. It also means that your AC is overheating.
Sometimes, you might be tempted to simply reset the circuit breaker. It’s not the right way to handle this issue. When you reset the breaker, it doesn’t solve the problem that’s causing your compressor to overheat. Call Armstrong Air’s HVAC professionals for detailed inspection of the unit and the electric circuit.
Your air conditioning system blows warm air
When your air conditioning system is blowing warm air instead of cold air, it’s time to check the condenser. Is it running? If so, it could be a fault in your compressor.
A weak or faulty compressor would fail to pump the refrigerant through the tubes. As a result, warm air would be blown from the indoor unit.
You can cure this lack of cooling power by calling professional HVAC help immediately. Since this problem could be due to a number of reasons, including refrigerant leak, don’t ignore it no matter what. You may end up with a broken compressor.
You hear loud rumbling noise coming from your AC compressor
If your AC compressor is making a loud rumbling or rattling noise, you should turn off the unit immediately. It could mean any of the following.
- The distributor motor inside the compressor is loose
- Something inside the compressor is thrashing around
When your compressor motor has come loose, calling a professional can help you solve the issue without allowing it to cause any further damage to the unit.
You notice moisture around your air conditioning system
If you have seen moisture on or around any part of your HVAC system, it could be due to a leakage. Puddles can be caused by escaping refrigerant. If the refrigerant leaks and you run the system without it, the compressor may break down.
Pay attention to any moisture and other signs as mentioned above. A pro HVAC can easily fix the refrigerant leakage, starting issues, and compressor motor problems to give you perfect cooling with noiseless operations. Your compressor will last longer and you won’t have to spend on expensive repairs.
