Your aircond compressor is one of the most important parts of your air conditioning system. Without it, your AC will not be able to function properly. That is why it is important to know how to avoid compressor failure.
Key takeaways
- Keep your AC unit clean and free of debris to prevent contamination.
- Have a professional service your AC unit regularly to catch any potential problems before they cause extensive damage.
- Inspect the wiring on your AC unit regularly and tighten any loose connections
- Prevent overloading the AC unit by using it only when necessary.
- Hire a qualified professional aircon service technician when working on your AC unit to avoid adding too much or too little refrigerant to the system.
- Keep your coils clean and well oiled to prevent airflow problems and compressor failure.
- Inspect the suction lines regularly to make sure they are clear and not blocked.
Contents
Check for Leaking Refrigerant
If your air conditioner is leaking refrigerant, it’s only a matter of time before the compressor fails. That’s why it’s important to check for leaks regularly and have them repaired as soon as possible. You can check for leaks yourself by looking for puddles of refrigerant around your AC unit. If you see any, call a qualified air con technician to have the leak repaired.
Only Hire Qualified Air Cond Professionals
When it comes to your AC, only hire qualified air cond professionals to work on it. This is especially important when it comes to charging the system with refrigerant. If too much or too little refrigerant is added to the system, it can cause damage to the compressor.
Get the Right Replacement Parts
If your AC compressor does fail, make sure you get the right replacement parts. There are two types of replacement compressors— OEM (original equipment manufacturer) and aftermarket. OEM compressors are made by the same company that made the original compressor, while aftermarket compressors are made by a different company. It’s important to get an OEM replacement because aftermarket compressors may not fit properly and could end up damaging your AC unit.
Keep your coils clean
The coils in your AC unit can become clogged with dirt and debris over time, which can cause airflow problems and lead to compressor failure. To prevent this from happening, be sure to clean your coils on a regular basis. However, if the coils are too dirty, you may need to replace them.
Keep your AC well oiled
Another way to keep your AC compressor in good working order is by keeping it well oiled. Over time, the oil in your compressor can break down and become sludge-like, which can cause damage to the unit. Be sure to check the oil level in your compressor on a regular basis and change it as needed.
Make sure suction lines are clear
The step to preventing AC compressor failure is to make sure the suction lines are clear. These lines bring refrigerant from the evaporator coil to the compressor. If they become blocked, it can cause the compressor to overheat and fail. You can clean the suction lines yourself or hire a professional to do it for you.
Inspect wiring
Another potential cause of AC compressor failure is faulty wiring. Over time, the wires can become loose or frayed, which can lead to a short circuit. To prevent this from happening, inspect the wiring on your AC unit regularly and tighten any loose connections. You should also check for signs of damage, such as burns or melted insulation.
Prevent contamination
One of the most common causes of AC compressor failure is contamination. This can happen when dust, dirt, or other particles get into the refrigerant system. To prevent this from happening, make sure to keep your unit clean and free of debris. You should also have a professional service your unit regularly to catch any potential problems before they cause extensive damage.
FAQs about Avoiding Air Conditioning Compressor Failure
Now that we’ve gone over some of the ways you can avoid AC compressor failure, let’s answer some common questions about the topic.
What are the most common causes of AC compressor failure?
The most common causes of AC compressor failure are leaks, contamination, and faulty wiring.
How often should I have my AC unit serviced?
It’s generally recommended that you have your AC unit serviced at least once a year. This will help to prevent any potential problems from becoming worse and damaging your unit.
What are the signs that my AC compressor is failing?
Some common signs that your AC compressor is failing include strange noises, leaking refrigerant, and reduced airflow. If you notice any of these problems, be sure to call a qualified AC technician right away.
Final Thoughts
As you can see, there are a number of things you can do to avoid AC compressor failure. By following the tips listed above, you can help to prolong the life of your unit and prevent costly repairs. It’s also important to have your unit serviced regularly by a qualified technician. If you do experience any problems with your AC unit, be sure to call a professional right away.