How to Know if the Air Conditioning Compressor is Bad
Compressors on home air conditioning units are one of the main components that cool your home. Consequently, it is also one of the most costly types of repairs. Compressors work to compress Freon gas making your air conditioner more efficient. Typical signs of compressors going bad or malfunctioning include high-pitched noises, lubricant leaks and air conditioners that do not cool. Learn how to know if an air conditioning compressor is bad.
Check your electric bill for larger than normal spikes of usage during the summer months when running the air conditioner. If a compressor is having to work harder or not functioning properly, you will likely notice a substantial increase in your bill. Malfunctioning compressors do not compress the Freon gas efficiently, which affects the entire air conditioning unit and draws more power.
Test the air from the compressor fan to see if you feel cool air when placing your hand in front of the fan. Lukewarm air generally indicates a worn or bad compressor.
Evaluate the air conditioning unit by listening to the sounds of the unit. Stand beside the air conditioner and turn it on to listen to the sounds it makes when starting. A unit that is functioning properly will produce smooth rhythmic sounds of the compressor fan and the normal sounds that compressors make. If the air conditioner takes an abnormally long time to start up, this can be an indicator of compressor problems.
- Identify specific sounds indicating there is a compressor problem. Listen for hissing sounds caused by freon gas leaks. Knocking sounds coming from the compressor motor usually indicate the motor is no longer working correctly and needs replacing.