4 Ways to Detect a Failing AC Compressor

What is an AC Compressor?

Located in the outdoor portion of an air conditioning unit, a compressor is one of the unit’s most integral parts -- and a failing AC compressor is one of the most expensive issues to fix. The purpose of an air conditioning compressor is to circulate the refrigerant needed for heat exchange through the coils of the indoor and outdoor air conditioning unit. It also applies the energy to the refrigerant.

How to Diagnose AC Compressor Failure

Does your home seem hot even though you have the air conditioning on? Here are four clues that could indicate a problem with your AC compressor but be sure to call an HVAC technician like Easy AC to properly diagnose AC compressor failure, and of course help you solve the problem.

1. No cool air inside.
   This is one of the first signs that your compressor may be having trouble. An AC compressor failure will show signs of the compressor not being able to properly regulate the refrigerant flow in the AC system, causing the temperature to be higher than normal.
   
   
2. Loud noises and “hard” starts.
   If your outdoor condenser unit shakes, shutters and makes loud noises when switched on, it may be another sign that your AC compressor is failing and has gone kaput.
   
   
3. Tripped circuit breaker.
   When your compressor starts to fail, it will start overworking itself, often causing your circuit breaker to trip and cut off power to the unit. If it’s happening quite frequently, there’s a good chance an AC compressor failure is to blame.
   
   
4. The compressor clutch is not moving.
   The clutch on a compressor is what allows the pulley to engage and disengage from engine power, so the compressor is only turning when it needs to be. If it stops working, the compressor can’t receive power and therefore can’t function.

How to Prevent AC Compressor Failure

Now that you have an idea of how to diagnose AC compressor failure, let’s talk preventative measures.

An AC compressor’s expected lifespan is 10 to 15 years. Up to 80 percent of AC compressor failures before the lifespan is over are preventable if the problems leading to the failure are fixed in a timely manner. Getting regular, reputable AC service company with experienced, licensed technicians.

How Do I Fix an AC Compressor Failure?

If you are confident in doing it yourself, here are some steps to take to solve the problem.

(Disclaimer: we take no responsibility for the information provided below, and highly recommend AC repair abilities and don’t know how to diagnose an AC compressor, consult a professional HVAC technician such as Cool Today. If necessary, our technicians will be able to replace the part for you as well.