Air Conditioner Compressor Failure

The compressor is known to be the heart of any air conditioner. It is the heart of the compressor that ensures the movement of refrigerant in the system. The compressors of air conditioners are subjected to high loads – mechanical and thermal (high temperature and pressure). The mechanical parts of the compressor are lubricated with just a few grams of oil. If there are problems with the lubrication (for example, due to oil leaks or loss of lubricity due to contamination), sooner or later the compressor will need to be replaced.

Insufficient lubrication is undoubtedly the most common cause of compressor failure. This situation can occur when oil leaks along with refrigerant leakage. Typical places where leakage can occur are:

  • flexible hoses
  • joints between pipes and flexible hoses
  • evaporator
  • condenser
  • compressor shaft seals.

Using a dye or leak detection device, we can locate the leak that needs to be repaired.

Any leaks in the refrigeration system can lead to increased compressor oil consumption. Restricting the circulation of oil that circulates with the refrigerant, caused by constricted tubing or a blocked expansion valve, can cause the compressor to run without lubrication, resulting in damage to the compressor. Even if the compressor works, it may need to be replaced if leaking fluids cause excessive noise or if the compressor does not run regularly. Some compressors run louder by nature, but the loud knocking noise can be caused by air in the system (the solution is to create a vacuum to remove the air and then refill with refrigerant). Metal noises coming from the bearings usually indicate damage to the compressor.

Compressor replacement is necessary if fluid leaks inside, or if the compressor can’t build the right pressure because of a faulty diaphragm valve, worn pressure pistons, or worn or scratched cylinders.

Wear or damage to the compressor can result in the compressor not being able to build the right pressure at the right refrigerant level. This type of problem can be diagnosed with an air conditioner pressure tester.

Poor cooling can also be caused by a number of factors other than compressor damage. Until we can verify that it is damaged, we should not replace it. Other causes of poor cooling include:

  • lack of refrigerant
  • too high oil level in the system
  • air in the system
  • condenser clogging
  • electric fan malfunction, etc.

Sensors on vehicles equipped with automatic temperature control systems can also affect compressor operation.

Some refrigeration systems are equipped with:

  • Pressure sensors that monitor refrigerant pressure and shut off the compressor if the pressure is too high.
  • Temperature sensors that shut down the compressor if the temperature is too high
    and/or compressor speed sensors that monitor belt slippage.

Every San Diego county resident knows that energy costs are directly related to the efficient operation of the air conditioning system. If you notice a malfunction in the air conditioner, you should immediately contact an air conditioner repair specialist from SDAC Heating & Air Conditioning.

Even if your air conditioner is still working properly, do not forget about the need for periodic maintenance of the air conditioning system to ensure long-term uninterrupted operation of the equipment.

Your air A/C should keep you cool even on the hottest days. But if your conditioner is old, contact the specialists to upgrade the equipment or install a new A/C.

Don’t delay your air conditioner repair. Do not forget that repairing is much easier and cheaper immediately after a breakdown occurs. If your air conditioner is working, but making strange noises or not cooling the room enough, it means it’s time to contact the technicians.

Don’t wait until the air conditioner is completely out of order. In the case of untimely repairs, there is a very high possibility that a long complex repair will be required. Even a few days without air conditioning in the summer heat in San Diego County, CA will bring great discomfort to the whole family. But by calling the masters from SDAC Heating & Air Conditioning you can avoid this problem.

Contact us.

(858) 788-1777

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