How to Tell if My AC Compressor Is Bad

The compressor is one of the most vital components in your air conditioning unit, responsible for circulating refrigerant and maintaining cool temperatures in your home. A malfunctioning compressor can lead to reduced cooling, poor efficiency, or a total breakdown of your AC system. Diagnosing whether the AC compressor has gone bad is essential to avoid bigger problems. At Parker’s Heating & Air Conditioning, one of our specializations is air conditioning repair. Leesburg, GA, Cordele, GA, and Americus, GA residents can trust us for reliable HVAC repair and AC installation services.

Recognizing the warning signs of a bad AC compressor can save you from costly AC unit repair or full system replacement. Some of these signs include:

Poor Cooling

One of the most common indicators is poor cooling performance. If your home isn’t reaching the desired temperature or the air feels warmer than usual, it could be a sign that your compressor is losing its ability to circulate refrigerant properly. When this happens, your air conditioner works harder to cool your home, resulting in higher energy bills and reduced comfort.

Strange Noises

Another key symptom is strange noises coming from the outdoor unit. A functioning compressor should operate relatively quietly, but grinding, rattling, or screeching sounds could mean that the internal components of the compressor are damaged. Electrical issues within the compressor can also cause these noises, signaling that the unit may soon fail and require the services of an HVAC repair contractor.

Warm Air and Hard Starts

If your air conditioning unit blows warm air instead of cool, the compressor may not compress refrigerant effectively. This is a clear indicator that something is wrong. In addition, your AC may experience hard starts – where it struggles to turn on or frequently cycles on and off. This intermittent operation can indicate an electrical failure in the compressor, which can strain the entire system, necessitating air conditioning repair.

Repeated Circuit Breaker Tripping

Frequent tripping of the circuit breaker is another warning sign. Since the compressor is the most energy-demanding component of an AC unit, a failing one may overload the electrical system, causing your breaker to trip repeatedly.

Contact Parker’s Heating & Air Conditioning for Expert AC Repairs

If you notice these signs, it’s time to contact the experts at Parker’s Heating & Air Conditioning. Call us today at (229) 924-3693 or use our contact form to describe your AC issue or request a quote. We offer air conditioning repair services to residents in Leesburg, GA, Americus, GA, Cordele, GA, and surrounding areas. Let us help you stay cool!