The compressor is one of the key components of your air conditioning system as it produces cool air by pumping refrigerant throughout the system. If your compressor is failing, it needs to be addressed right away before your air conditioner stops working. Here are five warning signs that indicate a potential compressor problem:
- Your air conditioner does not cool. When the compressor is starting to fail, it cannot properly pump refrigerant through the system. Warm air coming from your vents is a surefire sign of a compressor problem.
- Your circuit breaker repeatedly trips. Frequently tripping the circuit breaker is another sign of a failing compressor. The compressor might be working too hard and overheating, tripping the circuit breaker and cutting off the power to the unit. You should have your unit repaired if this continues to happen.
- Your air conditioning unit makes a lot of noise. It’s normal for your outdoor unit to make some noise. However, if it’s making much more noise than usual, it’s a sign of trouble. If you hear a chattering, clicking, or rattling sound, the compressor is likely to be the cause. The noise can indicate a loose belt in the compressor or an issue with the fuse.
- Your outdoor unit vibrates or shakes when starting. Does your condenser unit shake while it’s turning on? This is a “hard start,” which means that it is struggling to turn on. One of the most common causes of hard starts is a failing compressor.
- You see puddles or moisture around your air conditioning unit. Puddles around your air conditioning unit indicate that there is refrigerant leaking from the compressor. If the leak isn’t fixed, your air conditioner will no longer be able to generate cold air.
If you suspect that your compressor is failing, contact us to schedule an appointment.