When your home starts to feel warmer than it should, even with the AC running, the issue may go deeper than a dirty filter or low refrigerant. At the center of your cooling system is the compressor. This component pumps refrigerant through your AC system and plays an essential role in removing heat from inside your home. If it begins to fail, the entire system can struggle or shut down completely.
Catching signs of compressor failure early on is important to avoid more serious damage and higher repair costs later. A failing compressor can impact your home’s comfort, increase your energy bills, and leave your household vulnerable during the hottest days of summer. If you live in Kernersville, knowing what to look out for and acting quickly can help you protect your AC system and extend its life through consistent AC maintenance.
Strange Noises Coming From the Unit
Your AC should not make grinding or rattling sounds. When it does, the compressor might be to blame. As it wears out, internal parts can loosen or break, producing noises that are not typically part of normal operation. These sounds are more than just annoying—they are a clear warning sign.
Here is what different noises could mean:
1. Grinding: Often points to worn bearings or a seized motor inside the compressor.
2. Squealing: Could indicate a failing motor or misaligned internal parts.
3. Rattling or clanking: May suggest loose components that can cause further damage if left alone.
If you hear these kinds of sounds or anything unusual, it is time to turn off your system and contact our technicians. Ignoring these signs can lead to a total compressor failure, which is one of the most expensive AC problems to fix.
Reduced Airflow Throughout the Home
If the air coming from your vents feels weak or you notice uneven cooling in different rooms, a failing compressor could be the cause. The compressor plays a crucial role in circulating refrigerant through your AC system. If it cannot keep up, the refrigerant cycle is interrupted, and cooling becomes less efficient.
Watch for these signs of reduced airflow:
1. Little or no cool air coming from the vents
2. Some rooms staying warm while others cool properly
3. AC running for long periods without effective cooling
For example, a homeowner in Kernersville noticed that their AC was running all day, but the upstairs bedrooms remained hot. Our professionals inspected the system and found that the compressor was not generating enough pressure. Early attention to airflow issues like this can prevent more costly repairs or total system failure later on.
Frequent Tripping of Circuit Breaker
If your AC keeps tripping the breaker, the compressor might be pulling more power than it should. Overworked or failing compressors often draw excess electrical current, which leads to circuit breaker trips. While flipping the breaker back on might seem like a quick fix, repeatedly doing so can be unsafe and may cause more damage.
Common reasons a compressor may trip your breaker include:
1. Internal electrical shorts
2. Overheating due to age or mechanical strain
3. Loose wires or burned connections
These situations can harm both your HVAC system and your home’s electrical grid. If your AC frequently causes breaker trips, shut off the system and let our professionals check it out promptly.
Leaking Refrigerant Around Your AC Unit
Refrigerant is responsible for absorbing and transferring heat out of your home. If the compressor is failing, you might notice refrigerant leaks as a result of cracked parts or damaged seals. This not only reduces your system’s ability to cool but contributes to long-term wear and higher operating costs.
Be on the lookout for these signs:
1. Wet spots or pools near your outside unit
2. Hissing or bubbling during operation
3. Ice forming on refrigerant lines or coils
Low refrigerant puts more stress on your compressor, forcing it to work harder to produce less cooling. If leaks are not fixed early, the compressor may eventually give out completely. The best step is to stop using your unit and have our technicians inspect it before greater system damage occurs.
Rising Energy Bills Without Explanation
Seeing your electricity bills go up even though you have not changed your thermostat settings or daily usage patterns? It could point to a failing compressor. When compressors are no longer efficient, your system has to work longer and harder to keep the house cool, which uses more electricity.
Pay attention to these signs:
1. Unusually high energy bills month over month
2. No change in household behavior or outside temperatures
3. AC seems constantly on with little cooling achieved
For instance, a family in Kernersville contacted us after they noticed their energy bills had increased noticeably during the summer. They kept the thermostat at the usual temperature, but cooling performance dropped. A checkup revealed that the compressor was not maintaining the proper pressure. After replacing the faulty part, their cooling and power bills returned to normal.
Leaving a problem compressor unaddressed can force other AC parts to wear out faster. Acting early can preserve your system and reduce energy costs.
Conclusion: Ensuring Your AC’s Longevity in Kernersville
Problems with your compressor are more than just a seasonal nuisance. They can lead to system-wide failures that leave your home without cooling when you need it most. Recognizing signs like strange noises, poor airflow, constant breaker trips, refrigerant leaks, or rising utility bills helps you avoid major breakdowns.
Homeowners in Kernersville who schedule routine AC maintenance can catch issues like these early. During visits, our technicians inspect all key parts, including the compressor, helping you avoid major expenses and keep your system performing well during summer months. With regular care and fast attention to warning signs, you can extend the life of your system and keep your home a comfortable place for the entire season.
Regular upkeep is key to a reliable cooling system in Kernersville, so consider scheduling AC maintenance in Kernersville to catch potential issues before they lead to major repairs. Let Blown Away HVAC help ensure your home stays comfortable all summer long. For a quick estimate or to book a service visit, please contact us today.
