In a home air conditioning system, the refrigerant absorbs heat energy from the air and transports it outside. Your AC compressor is the key component driving this process, so a faulty compressor can cause serious trouble. Fortunately, some basic knowledge can help you identify compressor problems and recognize when to call for help in Louisville, KY.
Check for Hot Air
An air conditioner that blows hot air is quite clearly a problem. This can happen for several reasons, but the primary culprit is often the compressor. Refrigerant leaks can prevent your compressor from working normally, but there may also be issues with the compressor itself. When it comes to your AC’s outdoor unit, it’s actually a lack of hot air that may indicate a problem. With a healthy compressor, your outdoor unit should produce plenty of hot exhaust air. If the exhaust isn’t hot, your compressor is likely malfunctioning.
Listen for Trouble
Air conditioning compressors usually don’t malfunction entirely without warning. A faulty unit will often begin making unusual noises, particularly as the system starts up. Keep an ear out for any ticking, rattling, chattering or high-pitched hissing noises coming from your outdoor AC unit. A compressor that’s struggling to perform may also vibrate, potentially causing additional damage to other components. If the problem is caught early enough, a scheduled HVAC maintenance visit may be all it takes to resolve the issue.
Observe and Report
Faulty compressors and other AC issues can manifest in many different ways. As a result, the best approach is often to simply make notes of anything unusual that you notice. It could be a tripped circuit breaker, a spike in your utility bills or a small leak near your AC system. These observations can help you narrow down the problem, but they’re also tremendously useful when it comes time for repairs. Experienced service technicians can use your notes to quickly identify the issue and provide targeted repairs.
When the heat is on, don’t let a faulty AC compressor rob you of the cool air and comfort you need. Call the air conditioning repair specialists at Elder Heating and Air for all your home heating and cooling repair needs.
