A working air conditioning system in Mississippi is as important as having water to drink and air to breathe. It is more than a convenience; it is necessary, particularly during the hot and humid summer. So, what happens when your air conditioner compressor goes out? How can you tell if it needs AC repair Blue Springs, MS?
Your Air Conditioner Compressor and Its Role
In order to understand how your AC unit works, it is helpful to have a basic understanding of the different parts and what they do.
The compressor is considered the heart of a cooling system. It is a pump responsible for moving refrigerant throughout the unit, which is powered by an electric motor. When the system is turned on, the motor starts, and the compressor begins to pump.
The refrigerant that the compressor pumps is a special fluid that helps to cool the air inside your property. It works by absorbing heat from the air and then releasing it outside. The compressor is responsible for ensuring that the refrigerant is always moving to do its job.
If the compressor goes out, the entire system will shut down. Hence, getting professional AC repair Blue Springs, MS is important as soon as you spot unusual behavior.
The Warning Signs of a Failing AC Compressor
Although you may not be familiar with the inner workings of your air conditioner, there are some telltale signs that something is wrong. If you notice any of the following, turn to Riddle Heating and Air for AC repair Blue Springs, MS.
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You Have a Tough Time Getting Your Unit to Start
It is not fair to immediately assume that your compressor is bad if you have difficulty getting your unit to start. You can first check your air filter to see if it is dirty. Chances are, it restricts airflow and causes your AC to struggle to start up.
It is also likely that you have a malfunctioning capacitor. It is responsible for supplying the electric charge that helps to get the compressor running. If it is not working properly, the compressor will not turn on quickly.
If you have inspected your air filter and capacitor and neither seems to be the problem, we recommend calling a qualified technician for AC repair Blue Springs, MS right away.
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Reduced Airflow
Try to hold your hand up to the vents. Do you feel a decrease in airflow? If so, it is possible that the compressor is not working as efficiently as it should be. Reduced airflow will cause your air conditioner to work harder – leading to an increase in your energy bills. It may also cause your system to freeze up, which will require AC repair near me Blue Springs, MS from a qualified technician.
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Your Air Conditioner Is Blowing Warm Air
It is typically normal for your air conditioner to blow air that is not as cold as you would like it to be. Perhaps your system is too big for your home, or the temperature outside is too hot for the AC to keep up. However, it is a cause for concern if it starts blowing warm air even when the weather is not that hot. Other than making your home uncomfortably warm, this problem could also signify a refrigerant leak.
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Outside Unit Vibrates When Turning On
For central air conditioners, the outside unit will usually vibrate when it turns on. If this is happening and the vibration is more than you think is normal, it is possible that the compressor is damaged and needs AC repair Blue Springs, MS repair or replacement.
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Screeching, Clattering, Clicking, or Growling Noises
Have someone listen to your air conditioner while it is running. If you hear any strange noises, something is likely wrong with the compressor. These sounds are usually caused by a loose part or an object caught in the compressor. Don’t make it a habit of ignoring strange noises coming from your system; otherwise, you may find yourself in need of more extensive AC repair Blue Springs, MS.
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Circuit Breaker Tripping
Does your AC system’s circuit breaker trip every time you try to turn it on? If so, this is definitely a cause for concern. Your compressor is likely drawing too many amps, which could be a sign of a problem. Don’t try to fix this problem alone, as you might end up doing more harm than good.
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You Have Damaged Wire
Noticed any damaged wiring around your air conditioner, especially when doing maintenance at home? Never ignore this, as it could pose a serious safety hazard. In worse cases, it leads to a fire. Have a professional take a look at the issue and perform the necessary AC repair Blue Springs, MS.
Why a Bad Air Conditioner Compressor is Dangerous for Your Home
Especially for big families, a home is not just a shelter. It is the place where memories are made. So, it is essential to keep all of its parts – from the electrical wiring to the HVAC system – in tiptop shape.
A bad air conditioner compressor is one of the many dangers that could put your home at risk. Not only will it make your cooling system less efficient and cause your energy bills to skyrocket, but it can also lead to many other problems, such as reduced airflow, difficulty starting up, and even fires.
The following are some of the reasons why a bad air conditioner can be a danger:
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It can cause your system to overheat.
Your air conditioning unit has a lot of components, and they all need to work together to cool your home. If one component is not working properly, the other parts must work harder to compensate for it. This can cause your system to overheat, which will reduce its lifespan.
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It can put a strain on your electrical system.
Your AC compressor is powered by electricity. If it is not working as exactly it should be, a significant amount of strain will be created. The two possible consequences we usually deal with here are power outage and fire (in most extreme cases).
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It can leak dangerous chemicals.
Your air conditioner uses a refrigerant to cool the air. Even a small leak releases harmful chemicals into the air. It can be dangerous for your family, especially if children or pets are in the home.
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It can make your home uncomfortable.
A bad AC system can make your home uncomfortable in general. Not only will it be difficult to cool your home, but the air quality will also suffer. Perhaps this is why you frequently suffer from headaches, fatigue, or respiratory problems.
How to Avoid Needing an AC Compressor Replacement
The best way to avoid needing a compressor replacement or costly AC repair Blue Springs, MS is to have your air cooling system serviced regularly. This will allow any problems to be detected and fixed before they cause major damage. It is also important to be aware of the signs that your air conditioner is not working properly, as we mentioned above.
For instance, if you notice that your energy bills have increased significantly, even though you haven’t changed your cooling habits, this could indicate a faulty compressor. You should have a professional check your system to troubleshoot the problem.
And while it is tempting to neglect or ignore unusual sounds like grinding or squealing, these might indicate a serious problem, such as a loose belt or damaged compressor.
You can also take some preventive measures to reduce the risk of damage to your unit, including:
- Investing in a surge protector to protect your air conditioner from damage caused by power surges.
- Keeping the area around your unit clear, so it receives adequate airflow and prevents it from overheating.
- Covering your AC system when not in use protects it from the elements and extends its lifespan.
If you do find yourself in need of an air conditioner compressor replacement, make sure to work with a qualified and experienced technician to carry out the work. No matter how tempting it may be to try to do it yourself or have a friend do the job on your behalf, remember that this is not something an amateur can explore. Only an HVAC technician will have the knowledge and skills to properly diagnose the problem and carry out the replacement without causing further damage to your air conditioner.
Faulty Air Conditioner Compressor? Call Riddle Heating and Air!
If you think your home’s air conditioner compressor is beginning to fail, don’t hesitate to call us for AC repair Blue Springs, MS. Fixing the problem at the right time will save you a lot of money and hassle in the long run. Our extensive experience and knowledge in the field of HVAC will give you the peace of mind that your home is in good hands.
To schedule a consultation or any concerns about your air conditioner, you can give us a call at 866-256-0341, and we’d be happy to help!
