So you know that thing that sits outside by your house….your air conditioner?   It’s probably more complicated than you think.  An air conditioner operates by circulating a fluid called a refrigerant. The refrigerant absorbs indoor heat and transports it outdoors to a condenser coil, which releases it as hot air when flowing across the coil. The "compressor" is the engine that drives this fluid circulation, compressing the refrigerant and pushing it through various tubes as it evaporates and condenses. Therefore, without the compressor, your air conditioning will not work. Here are several signs your compressor is failing:

How to Tell Your Air Conditioning Compressor Needs Repair

1. Strange Noises

A ticking sound occurs as the compressor starts to fail and struggles to turn on and off. The sound indicates the relay, which supplies power to the compressor, is dying. Rattling noises, on the other hand, could mean interior components have become loose and are knocking around inside the compressor motor. Do not attempt to repair this yourself, due to the danger of electrocution.

2. Warm Air

When the air conditioner blows warm air, you should start by rechecking your thermostat to ensure it is set to “COOL”. If it is, you may have a refrigerant leak, and heat leaving the house via the refrigeration system. On the other hand, it could also mean the compressor is bad. These are the first two issues an AC technician checks for when the unit isn't cooling properly. If the compressor is failing, it cannot transport refrigerant through the system. The evaporation and condensation cycle cannot occur, and the unit blows only warm air. 

3. Outdoor Unit Vibrates

When it works properly, the compressor unit should hum smoothly and occasionally whir as the fan engages. However, a noticeable vibration as the outdoor AC unit starts is a sign of trouble. It is a common symptom that occurs immediately before the compressor motor fails. To avoid a system shutdown, contact an air conditioner repair technician for service.

and a bonus!

4. If your electrical breaker for the air conditioner is tripping, it is likely a bad compressor.  We find that after electrical storms and other times when there has been a sudden change in voltage, which damages the compressor.

If you suspect your air conditioner compressor is failing, contact Wright Heating & Cooling in Kent, OH. They have been offering residential and commercial HVAC services to the Kent, Ravenna, Hudson, Aurora, and the surrounding area for more than 69 years. They specialize in heating and cooling installation and repair. Learn about financing, rebates, and special offers on their website. Call (330) 673-3507 to schedule air conditioner repair.