The compressor is one of the largest and most expensive components inside your air conditioner. Having compressor problems can mean that it’s time to replace your entire AC unit. It’s a good idea to be aware of the signs of early compressor problems so that you can schedule service and potentially invest in repairs instead of a total replacement.
When you do need to schedule an appointment for air conditioning repairs, our team is here to help. You can keep reading to learn more about what the compressor does inside of your air conditioner, why it is so important, and what happens when it begins to have problems operating.
First, it is important to know that the air conditioning compressor is located on the outdoor portion of your unit. All of the sounds and signs outlined in this blog post are relevant to the outdoor unit if you are trying to identify compressor problems. Hearing the sounds or noticing symptoms on the indoor portion of your unit may point to other issues.
Rattling Noises
If you hear rattling noises coming from your outdoor unit, this can point to the mounts being loose for your air conditioning compressor. The compressor has to be secure and stable in order for it to work effectively. If the mounts loosen up, they can produce a rattling sound during operation as the air compressor moves.
Vibration During Startup
Another sound, not to be confused with rattling, is vibration. If the compressor is vibrating when your unit starts up for cooling, this can indicate a hard start. It is important to pay attention to the unit when it is first turning on to complete a cooling cycle.
This is when vibration can happen due to start up problems. If you notice vibration on the outdoor portion of the unit when your AC is turning on, the compressor may be struggling to operate the way it was designed. The most likely cause is a pressure difference inside that the compressor cannot overcome.
Warm Air
You may also have perfectly strong airflow coming from your air conditioner. But if that air is not specifically cool, it is not working effectively to lower the temperature inside your home. If airflow in your home is strong, but warm instead of cool, you may need to consider the possibility of a refrigerant leak.
As refrigerant leaks out, levels get lower and lower until they can no longer meet your cooling needs. Air will still move through the system and out into your home, but it won’t be cool enough. As a result, your unit will continue working harder and harder in an attempt to produce results.
Tripping Circuit Breaker
One last sign of compressor problems is having the circuit breaker trip for your air conditioner. The compressor is a major component inside of the unit, a tripping breaker can point toward compressor problems. The compressor may be consuming too much power, and then it attempts to start up, resulting in a surge of electricity to the unit that trips the breaker and prevents potential damage to the unit.
Contact the Mechanical Air Conditioning team for your central heating and air conditioning needs. Serving all of palm beach county and the treasure coast.