Is Your AC’s Compressor Struggling?

The compressor is the heart and soul of your air conditioner. It circulates the refrigerant that cools your Stockbridge, Georgia, home. An ailing compressor should be examined by an HVAC professional immediately. Compressor failure can result in expensive AC repair or total AC replacement. Here’s how to know when it’s time to get help:

Alarming Noises

Chattering or rattling noises could mean that the electrical relay switch that powers the compressor is worn out. Loose bearings could make a grinding noise. A bearing that’s leaking could produce squealing. Clunking, hissing, or rumbling on startup could mean that the motor mounts on the compressor are bad. It could also mean that the motor itself has become loose.

Pools of Liquid

Moisture near your AC could be refrigerant leaking from the compressor. If all of the refrigerant leaks out, your AC can’t cool your home. Refrigerant is poisonous. It can produce symptoms like coughing, headache, irritated eyes, and nausea.

Warm Airflow or Reduced Airflow

Warm airflow from the vents can indicate leaking refrigerant. It can also mean that the compressor is losing its ability to regulate airflow or to cool the refrigerant. If that’s the case, then the compressor is definitely going bad.

Difficulties With Startup

Atypical noises and sluggish performance during startup suggest that your air conditioner is struggling to turn itself on. Your AC may sputter, jerk or show other signs of distress. That is not normal, even for an older unit. The startup should be smooth, even and relatively quiet.

Just one Georgia heat wave can take out an air conditioner with a failing compressor. The danger increases if the unit hasn’t received annual AC maintenance. If you suspect compressor failure, call Jones Climate Control at (678) 210-3851 for AC repair. We can also perform an AC replacement if necessary.