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has been a family-owned AC repair and HVAC company in Orlando for over 25 years. Our slogan, “Honesty and Quality at a Fair Price,” speaks directly to our aim of keeping our customers happy.
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Defective AC Compressor
Common Symptoms Of a Defective Compressor
The most common symptom of a compressor failure (besides no cooling) is a seized compressor. It will not turn when the magnetic clutch engages, and you may hear squeals of protest from the drive belt. Or, the belt may have already broken or been thrown off its pulleys.
Loss of lubrication is unquestionably the most common cause of compressor failure. This can happen when there is a refrigerant leak somewhere in the system that allows refrigerant and oil to escape. Typical leak points are hoses, hose and pipe connections (O-rings and flange gaskets), the evaporator, condenser or the compressor shaft seal. An electronic leak detector or dye should be used to find the leak so it can be repaired.
A restriction inside the A/C system can also starve the compressor for oil. Oil circulates with the refrigerant, so if the orifice tube or expansion valve is blocked it may cause the compressor to run dry and seize.
Even if a compressor is still turning, it may have to be replaced if it is leaking, making excessive noise or not working correctly. Some compressors are naturally noisier than others, but loud knocking noises can sometimes be caused by air in the system (the cure here is to vacuum purge the system to remove the unwanted air, then to recharge the system with refrigerant). Metallic noises and bearing noise are usually signals that the compressor is about to fail.
Poor cooling can also be caused by a lot of things other than a bad compressor, so do not replace the compressor until you have ruled out other possibilities such as a low refrigerant charge, too much oil in the system, air contamination, a clogged condenser, plugged orifice tube, inoperative electric cooling fan, etc.
Common Symptoms Of a Defective Compressor
The most common symptom of a compressor failure (besides no cooling) is a seized compressor. It will not turn when the magnetic clutch engages, and you may hear squeals of protest from the drive belt. Or, the belt may have already broken or been thrown off its pulleys.
Loss of lubrication is unquestionably the most common cause of compressor failure. This can happen when there is a refrigerant leak somewhere in the system that allows refrigerant and oil to escape. Typical leak points are hoses, hose and pipe connections (O-rings and flange gaskets), the evaporator, condenser or the compressor shaft seal. An electronic leak detector or dye should be used to find the leak so it can be repaired.
A restriction inside the A/C system can also starve the compressor for oil. Oil circulates with the refrigerant, so if the orifice tube or expansion valve is blocked it may cause the compressor to run dry and seize.
Even if a compressor is still turning, it may have to be replaced if it is leaking, making excessive noise or not working correctly. Some compressors are naturally noisier than others, but loud knocking noises can sometimes be caused by air in the system (the cure here is to vacuum purge the system to remove the unwanted air, then to recharge the system with refrigerant). Metallic noises and bearing noise are usually signals that the compressor is about to fail.
Poor cooling can also be caused by a lot of things other than a bad compressor, so do not replace the compressor until you have ruled out other possibilities such as a low refrigerant charge, too much oil in the system, air contamination, a clogged condenser, plugged orifice tube, inoperative electric cooling fan, etc.
FAQ ON DEFECTIVE AC COMPRESSOR
How common is it for an AC compressor to fail?
The AC compressor failure problem is common when needing Orlando AC repair. Issues like too little oil or installation errors increases chances of the unit failing.
What are signs to watch for?
An air conditioner compressor may start to make strange noises. It can sound like it’s having a hard time getting started up. It may even begin to lose some of its cooling power as this part starts to gradually failure.
Why is my AC not cooling as effectively as it used to?
Losing cooling capacity is a common problem as the compressor starts to fail. The compressor may have a hard time maintaining the appropriate level of pressure. Once it starts to lose its discharge capabilities, it’s better to replace this part since performance will continue to decline.
Why is my AC cycling on and off?
Shutting on and off is caused by the system’s inability to compensate for system deficiencies. The AC could be cycling on and off because the compressor’s capacitor is defective. The compressor could start to fail because it’s utilizing a higher level of amperage than normal. If the system begins to overload, it could end up cycling off. Low refrigerant charge and clogged filters are additional causes that can lead to short cycles.
Why is my AC not cutting on at all?
The compressor may be badly damaged. Replacing this part is necessary in order to get the unit to function normally again.
Is there anything I should do after replacing the compressor?
You should flush the compressor after replacing the part. The hoses should be thoroughly flushed. Over time, the debris can clog up the condenser and lead to extensive blockage in the tubes. The blockage not only diminishes performance, but it also leads to compressor failure. If you have an older system, you will have an easier time flushing the system if the system contains a serpentine-style tube and fin condensers. You also want to make sure that you have removed all of the debris from the old compressor to prevent the new system from failing.
What are the most common reasons for this type of failure?
Systems can fail due to neglect. The system has to be properly maintained. Something as simple as having too little oil in the system is enough to cause the system to malfunction. Parts incorrectly installed can cause the system to fail.
Ambrose Air, Inc. has been a family-owned AC repair and HVAC company in Orlando for over 25 years. Our slogan, “Honesty and Quality at a Fair Price,” speaks directly to our aim of keeping our customers happy.
Ambrose Air, Inc. has been serving Central Florida since 1990. Our company was founded on the principal of Honesty and Quality at Fair Price. We have done jobs ranging from a simple repair to as large as 3/4 of a million dollar
Ambrose Air, Inc.
6457 Hazeltine National Dr. Suite 165, Orlando, FL 32822
407-857-0889
info@ambroseair.com
We are a state licensed contractor License # CACO42735
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Saturday : 7am > 12pm
Sunday : Closed
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