What are bad AC compressor symptoms you can’t afford to ignore? The main issue with a faulty compressor is that the HVAC system’s performance suffers, reducing your comfort, compromising indoor air quality, and lowering energy efficiency.
The air conditioning unit’s compressor plays a crucial role in providing cool air to your home. However, it is not always obvious that a compressor is broken.
Below, Lion Air Conditioning Heating and Cooling, LLC lists six common signs of a malfunctioning compressor, including when to call Lauderhill’s AC repair experts to handle the problem.
How Does a Compressor Work?
An air conditioning compressor clutch works with the condenser unit, compressing the unit’s refrigerant fluid to facilitate the heat transfer process. All types of compressors operate under the same principle: pressurizing the coolant fluid to turn it from a gas into a liquid.
Modern air conditioners use three types of compressors:
- Reciprocating compressors: A small piston oscillates back and forth, compressing the air it takes in. These compressors are the oldest kind, and reliable and efficient.
- Screw compressors: A series of helical screws rotate against one another, drawing in and compressing air. These types of compressors are very powerful and reliable, but expensive.
- Rotary compressors: A small bladed shaft rapidly rotates to compress air. They are not as powerful as other compressors, but are still efficient and relatively quiet.
Signs of a Broken Air Compressor That Needs Repairs
1. Leaking Fluid
One obvious sign you have a broken AC compressor is a refrigerant leak. The coolant fluid in the unit can leak from a cracked compressor and collect on the floor near your air conditioning unit.
A common sign of a coolant leak is ice build up on your evaporator coils and copper lines. Coolant fluid is usually not harmful if cleaned up quickly, but it can pose a danger in large concentrations or when ingested by pets.
2. High Utility Bills
One of the most obvious bad AC compressor symptoms is a sudden increase in your utility bills. If the compressor isn’t working properly, your air conditioner will have to work harder to achieve the same results. The unfortunate outcome will be rising energy bills while the air conditioner’s overall performance suffers.
3. Strange Noises
Most compressors make some noise—typically, a light humming sound. If you notice loud scraping or grinding sounds whenever the HVAC kicks on, it could be a compressor problem. Several moving parts might start scraping against one another inside the compressor, which worsens as these components fall out of alignment.
4. Circuit Breakers Trip
A faulty compressor will draw too much current, with the usual results involving tripped circuit breakers. If your circuit box blows a fuse every time the air conditioner comes on, the problem is very likely a broken AC compressor. A team like Lion Air Conditioning Heating and Cooling, LLC will need to replace the compressor as soon as possible to prevent further electrical disruptions.
5. Reduced Air Flow
Diminishing air flow is usually one of the earliest signs of a faulty AC compressor. However, it can be difficult to tell that air flow has become a problem because it starts small. One hint is if you can hear your air conditioner running but cannot feel a strong air flow coming out of the vents.
6. System Cycles Frequently
The air conditioner’s compressor tells the machine when it needs to turn on or off. A malfunctioning compressor might send too many signals or incorrect signals to the unit, causing it to switch off or on before a cycle finishes. Frequent cycling puts unnecessary strain on your system, which also raises your energy bills.
How Often Should I Replace My Compressor?
A typical Florida HVAC compressor lasts for about 15 years. These components generally last the entire lifetime of the unit, so you should not need to replace them before the air conditioning system. Be sure to ask a local team like Lion Air Conditioning Heating and Cooling, LLC more about what homeowners can expect to pay in Coral Springs, FL.
AC Maintenance, Repair, and Replacement in Coral Springs, FL
Lion Air Conditioning Heating and Cooling, LLC has over a decade of experience in the industry, providing quality heating, ventilation, and air conditioning services, including all common AC repairs. We dedicate ourselves to providing unparalleled customer service and exceeding your expectations.
Once you have a bad AC compressor, symptoms won’t matter without a reliable team to repair them. Contact Lion Air Conditioning Heating and Cooling, LLC at (754) 704-6459 today to schedule service in Coral Springs, FL.
