The 5 Symptoms of a Malfunctioning AC Compressor

It’s normal for an air conditioning unit to encounter some issues here and there. Especially with frequent use, wear and tear will slowly creep and damage the machine. When that happens, you’ll have faulty components inside the machine. Moreover, the unit will perform less efficiently.

If you don’t address the problem immediately, it could lead to costly repairs. This goes to show that you have to deal with the issue before it worsens. As a measure, keep an eye out on these signs that possibly indicate a problem with your AC’s compressor:

Circuit Breaker Trips

Momentary power cuts in an AC unit are a symptom of two things only. It’s either your unit is working way too hard or your compressor is having problems. Once your circuit breaker starts to trip often, consider it an initial sign of the latter.

Hard Starts

AC technicians call it a “hard start” when the machine starts running in a noisy, violent fashion. When your compressor is malfunctioning, you’ll often find your AC shaking and shuttering whenever you turn it on.

Leaks

Your HVAC needs lubrication so as to keep its components cool. When there’s a leak, this liquid could run out and lead to metal-on-metal contact. Once that happens, it could severely damage your compressor. So, once you spot leaks around the unit’s area, it could be the prelude to a problem with the compressor.

Noises

AC units can be quite noisy, but excessive noise is a telltale sign something is wrong with your machine. If you hear squealing and knocking noises coming from the unit, it could be a sign of metal-on-metal contact in the compressor area.

Warm Air

Of course, the most obvious sign is the lack of cool air from the machine. Nonetheless, this isn’t always a sure symptom of a compressor problem. There are other factors that can cause your unit to stop blowing cool air.
Should any of these signs be visible in your AC, it’s time to call the pros. Conduct Air Conditioning will help you fix the problem and keep your machine in top shape. Give us a call today for more information and we guarantee a response to all enquiries within one business hour.