HVAC technicians often refer to the compressor as the heart of an air conditioning system. So, what happens if an AC compressor is bad and requires replacement? Our experts at Fast Air Heating & Cooling specialize in AC repair in Reddick, FL, and can explain why the compressor is so important and signs that it’s no longer working properly.
Use the information in this guide to determine when you need to schedule air conditioning repair services. Our professionals can help you decide whether it’s best to replace your faulty compressor or it’s time to install a brand-new air conditioner.
You Hear Strange Noises Coming From the System
It’s normal for your air conditioner to hum during the cooling cycle. This means the compressor is hard at work pushing refrigerant through the evaporator and condenser coils so your Reddick home remains cool and comfortable. However, a clicking noise can be an early sign of compressor failure as electrical components struggle to power the system.
Contact an HVAC professional if you hear clicking sounds when your air conditioner turns on or if you hear rumbling or rattling noises as it operates. The noises could indicate a loose motor that begins to clank or vibrate during the cooling cycle.
Your Home Experiences Indoor Temperature Fluctuations
When you notice warmer air flowing through your vents, take it as a sign that your AC compressor is bad. The warm airflow can lead to fluctuating indoor temperatures and make your house uncomfortable amid the sizzling Florida heat. The compressor’s main function is to transfer cool air into your home by expanding liquid refrigerant into gas.
Poor refrigerant circulation makes the cooling process much more difficult and can lead to compressor failure, among other HVAC issues. Your air conditioner may be running low on refrigerant naturally or due to a leak somewhere in your system. Have a professional inspect the equipment and adjust refrigerant levels so that your compressor works as it should.
Your Reddick Home Has Restricted Airflow
It’s never a good sign when your air conditioner is running, but you don’t feel any cool air coming from your vents. Restricted airflow is one of the most common cooling system problems that Reddick locals have to deal with, but thankfully, there are a few different ways you can troubleshoot it. Try the following tips to promote strong airflow:
- Check for closed air registers
- Remove furniture or large objects blocking vents
- Change the HVAC air filter
If the problem persists despite these measures, it’s likely that your AC compressor is bad and needs replacing. Compressors weaken over time and may no longer push the cool air you require. Consult a licensed technician to inspect all system diagnostics and check the compressor’s condition.
Your Energy Bills Spike Despite No Change in Cooling Requirements
Be mindful of abnormally high energy costs, especially if your cooling habits remain the same. Your system may have to work harder to cool your home to your desired temperature, therefore causing your utility bill to spike. As your compressor begins to fail, your air conditioner becomes less efficient and costs you more in the long run as a result.
You should replace the faulty part to save money going forward. Depending on the age and overall function of your unit, however, it might be best to replace the entire air conditioner. Aging systems lose their efficiency, so if your unit is over 10 years old, replacing the compressor might not make much difference to the energy efficiency.
No matter which solution you opt for, prioritize air conditioning maintenance going forward. DIY measures like changing the air filter plus professional tune-up services come with many benefits, including:
- Increased system efficiency
- Reduced energy costs
- Lower risk of compressor failure
- Better indoor air quality
Take action if you notice unexplained increases in your cooling costs. Experienced technicians can provide repairs and tips for keeping your air conditioner operating at peak efficiency.
Your Air Conditioner Won’t Turn On
A failing air conditioning compressor can cause many problems during the cooling cycle, but perhaps the biggest sign that an AC compressor is bad is when the system won’t turn on at all. This may be due to a tripped circuit breaker, which is a direct result of the compressor overheating.
If your air conditioner won’t turn on, check your home’s breaker box to see if the circuit breaker powering your HVAC equipment is on. The breaker could automatically trip for your safety when electrical circuits begin to overload. The air conditioner may use too much power when it runs because the compressor is overheating, which leads to the breaker tripping.
Another possibility is that your unit has a malfunctioning capacitor. This vital part of any air conditioner helps to power the compressor, blower motor, and outdoor fan. A faulty capacitor and compressor can be expensive to replace, so your best option in this scenario might be replacing the whole air conditioner.
Bear in mind that an air conditioner that won’t turn on is not always because of a faulty AC compressor. Power failure may also occur because of a clogged air filter, dirty evaporator coils, or a refrigerant leak. Make sure you perform routine air conditioner maintenance to prevent these issues from affecting your cooling system.
Contact Reddick’s Trusted HVAC Contractor for Air Conditioning Repairs
The tips above can help you determine if your AC compressor is bad so you can address the issue quickly and restore your system’s performance. Make sure your Reddick, Florida, home stays cool and comfortable with the help of Fast Air Heating & Cooling. Our licensed technicians know how to replace faulty compressors and can even handle a full AC replacement project if that suits you best.
We take pride in helping you keep your energy costs down with HVAC repair services that help boost energy efficiency. To have a professional inspect your air conditioner, contact our Fast Air Heating & Cooling team today.