The air conditioner is made of several crucial parts, one of them being the compressor. An HVAC compressor pressurizes and heats refrigerant to facilitate the faster and more efficient release of heat as it passes through the coils. The following are details on how HVAC compressors work, what causes them to fail, and what maintenance steps prevent the need for repair.

How They Work

Your HVAC unit works by pulling the heat from your home and releasing it outside in a continuous cycle. Refrigerant is the substance that flows through the lines and coils in your air conditioner, and it's crucial to this process, as it's what absorbs and releases the heat. After the refrigerant absorbs heat from your home, it's sent to the compressor before going to the outdoor coils.

Most compressors are powered with a piston system that compacts and pressurizes the heated refrigerant, heating it even further to temperatures of 150°F or more. The hotter the refrigerant is, the more difference between it and the temperature outside, which means heat leaves the refrigerant more quickly and thoroughly, allowing cooled refrigerant to circulate back through the system and absorb more heat from your home. Without the compressor, the refrigerant would struggle to release the heat, and you wouldn't have a conditioned home.

Why They Fail & How To Prevent It

Your compressor can fail for numerous reasons, including dirty or corroded coils, too much or too little refrigerant, blocked or improperly sized suction lines, electrical malfunctions due to corrosion and acid buildup, and lack of lubrication on moving parts. All of these can cause the components in the compressor to prematurely wear, overheat, endure too much pressure, and ultimately fail. 

All these air conditioning repair needs can be prevented with professional maintenance. Yearly inspections of your unit will examine all parts of your system for visible damage or grime buildup—including wires and coils—and replace or repair any problematic pieces. The technician will also check the lubrication of moving parts, refrigerant levels, and airflow through suction lines. Regular maintenance reduces the stress on your system, so it runs efficiently—including the compressor—and detects problems before they occur or become severe.

If your HVAC needs maintenance, rely on High Tech HVAC in Wisconsin Rapids, WI. This team is licensed and insured and has over 24 years of experience installing, maintaining, and repairing heating and cooling systems. If you take advantage of their maintenance plan, you’ll enjoy discounts and priority 24/7 service, with no additional fees for emergency or weekend calls. Learn more about their maintenance program online, and call (715) 423-4881 to schedule an estimate or service.