AC Compressor Issues, Diagnosis and Repair
Refrigerant is the chemical that enables the absorption of heat and the production of cooling air in the air conditioner.
An air conditioner is a valuable addition to any building. In the hot summer months, the hardest working component of any air conditioner is the compressor, which is integral to keeping the air cool. Over time, though, it can be subject to various stresses and wear that may impact its performance or lead to a breakdown. Knowing common issues related to the compressor and how to spot warning signs can save you a great deal of trouble.
Refrigerant levels
Refrigerant is the chemical that enables the absorption of heat and the production of cooling air in the air conditioner. It’s a non-consumable substance and is recycled during the cooling process. However, refrigerant can be lost through leaks in an air conditioning system due to corrosion, faulty seals, or normal wear and tear. The loss of refrigerant burdens the compressor as it struggles to meet the temperature requirements.
If a power bill is higher than usual, or the air conditioner isn’t cooling as effectively, look for refrigerant leaks. As the chemicals are hazardous, it’s best to call a professional repair team to resolve the problem.
Poor installation
One should always professionally install an air conditioner. A shoddy installation job can cause various compressor issues and potential hazards. These include:
Suction lines are too big for the air conditioning model: This causes pressure within the system, leading to overheating. The compressor may overload or shut down trying to regulate this pressure.
Improper power usage: An air conditioner uses a lot of power and needs to be connected to a circuit with a 20- to 40-amp capacity. The voltage needs also must be met. If the air conditioner unexpectedly shuts down or starts with a loud noise, it could be struggling due to the power supply.
Bad wiring: A lack of proper connection will not supply enough power to the air conditioner. Furthermore, faulty wiring may cause a power surge that may damage the compressor and even pose a fire hazard.
If you suspect a bad air conditioning installation, contact a professional HVAC service immediately to assess and advise on solutions.
Lubrication
A compressor works best if all other surrounding parts are operational. An air conditioning system needs to be properly oiled and lubricated. Over time, debris, dust, pollen, and nicotine may seize up some parts, placing undue strain on the compressor. If the air conditioning system is noisier than usual, it may be time to clean the filters and air ducts. A professional HVAC team can provide the proper lubrication for all parts and give a deep cleaning of the different parts of the machine.
CMB Air is a residential heating and cooling installation, service, and repair company with 15+ years of experience serving Tampa and surrounding areas. If you need a new air conditioner, repair, maintenance or some other service, we can help! Call (813) 447-1443 today!
