4 Most Common Compressor Failure Causes
Many issues can cause your air conditioner to stop working. Some are inexpensive to fix. Alternatively, AC compressor failures can cause your unit to breakdown. These can be very expensive as the compressor is essential to the cooling process. The good news is many of the below issues are preventable. We will share the 4 most common compressor failure causes below.
1. Dirty Air Filter
This is one of the most common causes of cooling unit breakdowns. The filter is essential for keeping the unit running clean by keeping dust, dirt, and other debris from getting into the compressor. Here in Atlanta, our high heat and pressure can introduce a large number of contaminants that can cause damage. For example, we’ve seen:
- moisture.
- dirt.
- dust.
- leaves.
- soot.
- pet hair.
- acids.
- even bird and other pest droppings.
2. Dirty Air Coils
The air/evaporator coils are also another huge component in the cooling process. They work closely with the compressor. Dust, grime, and other contaminants can build up on the coils. As a result, the AC can’t expel enough heat and is forced to run constantly. The increased workload can cause the compressor and other components to fail prematurely.
3. Low or Leaking Refrigerant
A cooling system uses a series of lines to deliver coolant to and from the unit. Any failure in these lines puts more pressure on the system. Just as above, the added pressure can lead to compressor failure. Leaks can occur due to exterior damage, improper sizing, and wear and tear over time.
4. Improper Ventilation
Your air conditioner and compressor are a complex system that need proper ventilation to work. Many causes can affect the ventilation of an AC system. This includes but is not limited to damage in the ductwork, improper vents, bad air filters, wrong sized components, and many others. You may be tempted to have your ductworks cleaned by a fly-by-night operation. We highly recommend you only use local, established professionals. Click here to get a video on ductwork cleaning scams.
