Back to Air Conditioning

Posted: January 31, 2022

At Brevard Cooling and Heating, we always recommend hiring an experienced and knowledgeable HVAC company to perform any work you need. With that being said, we still believe you should know about your air conditioner. One of the most important parts of your system is the AC compressor. Taking the time to learn about the compressor will allow you to be more proactive when it comes to the care of your air conditioning system.

What is an AC compressor?

The AC compressor is found in the outside unit of your central air conditioning system. The compressor produces cold air to cool your home. The compressor circulates the refrigerant through the coils, which the refrigerant turns into a high-pressure gas. As it moves to the condenser, the refrigerant releases the heat turning it back into liquid. The liquid moves to the evaporator where it absorbs the heat to cool down and is turned back into gas. The gas goes back to the compressor and the process is repeated. 

Common Problems with AC Compressors 

There are common problems with compressors that you should be aware of: 

- Improper airflow around your outside unit. Shrubs, leaves, tree limbs, mulch, and fencing can restrict the airflow if it is too close. This can cause damage and decrease efficiency and the life. Be sure to prune shrubs and remove anything close.

- Dirty condenser fans. Dirt and bugs can cause buildup on the fans. This can cause it to not work properly and it can damage the compressor. You can prevent this by washing the fans.

- Dirty coils. Dirty coils can prevent your home from cooling down, your electric bill may be high, and it can result in full system breakdowns. Scheduling regular maintenance can help prevent this.

- Refrigerant leaks. Compressors can develop leaks, which would cause a refrigerant leak. This causes your system to work harder to push freon through, which will damage the compressor. If your refrigerant is low, you may notice your AC runs constantly, but is not cooling your home, high electric bills, ice or frost on refrigerant coils, and sounds coming from refrigerant lines such as hissing or bubbling.

- Too much refrigerant. An inexperienced technician may unknowingly add too much refrigerant. Each manufacturer specifies how much refrigerant is required and it is a requirement that the levels match. This can cause increased pressure in the system, which can lead to premature failure of the AC compressor. Your best bet is to make sure you hire a company that ensures its technicians are knowledgeable.

Signs Your Compressor Needs Repairs 

There are signs you can look out for to help you determine if your AC compressor needs repairs:

- The compressor shakes and there is a ticking noise

- The circuit breaker trips repeatedly

- Less airflow

- Warmer air coming from the vents

- Moisture leaks around the AC unit

- The air from the outside unit is cool after turning the AC up when you are hot

- Higher electric bills that are excessively high even for the summer months

AC compressors are truly a vital part of your air conditioning system and it is also expensive to replace. If you are looking to schedule an appointment for maintenance, experiencing any of these issues, or your AC stopped working, contact Brevard Cooling and Heating today! We service all of Brevard County and will be happy to assist you with all your HVAC needs for your Melbourne, Florida home. Please call our office at 321-757-9008 or use the form to request an appointment.