The compressor, located in the outside unit of your AC system, compresses refrigerant into a hot gas before making its way through the rest of the AC system. The refrigerant in your system must first become a high pressure gas before continuing to the condenser and evaporator coils to release and absorb heat. Without a working compressor array, your system will not be able to cool your home properly. If your compressor fails, the refrigerant cannot complete its task and the fans in your home will essentially circulate the warm air already in your home.
If you suspect any of these common problems with your compressor, call the Salt Lake City air conditioning technician at At Your Service Plumbing, Heating & Air for immediate repair.
Hard Starting
If your AC system has trouble starting up and turns off before the refrigerant completes its cycle and your home reaches the proper temperature, it may be a sign of a problem with the compressor or the motor that operates it. A hard starting system is problematic not only because it can drive up your energy bills and provide inadequate cooling, but also because it can cause electrical problems, leading the circuit breaker to trip.
Grinding Noises
A grinding noise in your AC compressor is a common sign of a problem. The compressor is run by a motor which requires proper lubrication and fittings in order to run. A grinding noise likely indicates a lack of lubrication within the motor, or that dust and other debris have entered into the motor. Grinding may also mean the motor bearings have dried out.
AC Stops Cooling
One of the most common signs of a damaged AC compressor is an air conditioner that won’t cool. Since your compressor helps the refrigerant to complete its cycle, a broken compressor will prevent the heat absorption and release needed to keep your home cool. While the fans in your home may be running, they cannot provide cool air.
Problems with your AC compressor require immediate repair or parts replacement. If you’re located in Salt Lake City, let the air conditioning experts from At Your Service Plumbing, Heating & Air repair your air conditioning at the first sign of a problem.
