Understanding The AC Compressor: What It Does And How It Works

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As temperatures rise during the summer months, a reliable air conditioning system becomes essential to keep your home cool and comfortable. One of the most important components of your AC system is the compressor, which is responsible for circulating the refrigerant throughout the system and moving the hot air from inside your home to the outside. Understanding how your AC compressor works can help you diagnose and prevent problems, ultimately saving you money and ensuring your family's comfort. Here is a look at the inner workings of your AC compressor so that you know when to schedule AC compressor repair in the future. 

What Exactly Is The AC Compressor?

Most homes' air conditioning system consists of two main parts: the indoor unit and the outdoor unit. The AC compressor is found in the exterior part of your air conditioner, and its duty is to compress refrigerant gas to create cool air. Once the refrigerant is compressed, it travels through the refrigerant lines to the indoor unit, where it absorbs heat from inside your home and thus makes your home cool. With the help of other components in your air conditioner, such as the fan, filter, coils, and so on, your air conditioner will run smoothly for years to come, as long as all are maintained. 

Common AC Compressor Problems You Should Look Out For

Like any mechanical device, AC compressors can develop problems over time. The most common issues include low refrigerant levels, electrical problems, and mechanical failures due to wear and tear or some other failure in the air conditioner that has had a domino effect on your compressor. If your refrigerant levels get drastically low, it will make the compressor overwork, leading to damage and potential failure. Electrical issues can prevent the compressor from starting or cause it to draw too much power, which can also damage the unit. Mechanical failures, such as a broken motor or compressor valve, can cause the compressor to seize or fail completely.

Warning Signs You Can Identify Early On

If you're experiencing problems with your home's AC system, it may be due to a faulty compressor. Signs of AC compressor problems include warm air blowing from your vents, reduced airflow, unusual noises or vibrations, and leaks around the outdoor unit. If you notice any of these symptoms, it's important to contact a professional AC repair technician to diagnose and fix the problem. AC compressor repair can be done quite quickly, as the parts are generally readily available, so as long as you spot it before the issue becomes too big, you should have a cool house in no time. 

For more information, contact a company such as Mikes Heating and AC Service.

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