4 Signs Your AC Compressor Needs To Be Repaired

If you're having trouble with your air conditioning system, it may be time for a new compressor. Not all symptoms point to an issue with the compressor, but several signs can help you determine if your AC compressor needs to be repaired or replaced. 

Your AC compressor is running continuously, but the air around the house isn't getting any cooler

Your AC compressor is the heart of your air conditioning system. It's what pumps refrigerant gas through your air conditioner, allowing it to cool down the air around you.

The compressor works by taking in refrigerant gas and compressing it to high pressure before cooling it down with water or an electric fan. The resulting liquid then expands back into a gas as it travels through coils inside an evaporator coil, which causes even further cooling of the air around you.

The fan inside your AC unit is spinning, but you don't feel any cool air coming from the vents

If you can hear the fan inside your AC unit running but don't feel any cool air coming from the vents, first ensure the thermostat is set to "cool". If it is, and if your compressor has failed, this could be one of several reasons.

The most common cause is simply low refrigerant levels in your system (see below). You may also have a malfunctioning thermostat or another component that needs repair or replacement.

The lights on your thermostat are flashing, or no lights at all are showing up on the display

If this happens, it's likely that there is something wrong with your compressor. The thermostat is a central control for the air conditioner and will let you know if there is a problem with the compressor by displaying various error codes (flashing lights) or shutting down altogether.

There are several signs that can help you determine if your AC compressor needs to be repaired or replaced.

  • A loud banging noise coming from the condenser unit is a sign that the bearings are failing and need replacing.

  • If there's a leak in your refrigerant lines, this means that there is a problem with one of them, which will require replacement by a professional technician before you can use your air conditioner again.

  • If there is no airflow coming through vents when it's supposed to be cooling down inside your home or office building, then this may be due to failed fan motors on either side of each register panel (in other words: two motors).

If you notice any of these signs, it's best to call a professional who can diagnose the problem and give you an accurate quote on how much it will cost to repair or replace your AC compressor.

To find out more, contact a company like Mikes Heating and AC Service.

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