What Makes an AC Compressor Stop Working?

There are several reasons why your AC compressor can stop working. Often, an AC compressor failure is due to preventable problems.

Thankfully, you don’t have to go without a working air conditioner in West Volusia County, Florida, for long. These tips from Jacob Heating & Air Conditioning can help you fix your AC compressor or prevent future damage.

How Does an Air Conditioning Compressor Work?

An air conditioning compressor works in two ways: It squeezes the molecules of the refrigerant together and works as a pump to circulate the refrigerant through the system.

As the refrigerant enters the evaporator in your house, it absorbs the heat from inside your home and turns into a gas. This gas is squeezed and heated further by the compressor, turning it into a hot liquid that’s then cooled by the condenser coil outdoors.

As the refrigerant goes back to the evaporator to repeat the cycle, pressure is reduced at the expansion valve, allowing the refrigerant to absorb heat easier and turn into a gas. Any leaks or damage to the compressor can hinder this process.

Why Did My AC Compressor Stop Working?

If your compressor or heat pump isn’t working, the first thing to do is check the power supply. The unit could have simply become unplugged, or there may be a more serious problem.

For homeowners who feel handy, this is a good time to take a look at your AC compressor or schedule AC repairs for a more comprehensive assessment.

You’ll want to have the unit examined for signs of a blown fuse, tripped circuit breaker, broken thermostat, or dirty air filters. Dirty or clogged filters commonly make AC compressors stop working.

When it comes to operating your cooling system properly, be realistic with the temperature setting on your thermostat. When it’s 110 degrees outside, don’t set your thermostat at 65. It just isn’t designed for that. Also, keep in mind that heat pumps don’t perform as well on very cold days.

Top Reasons Your AC Compressor Stopped Working

Not every AC repair problem is costly to fix. Knowing what the problem is will help you determine the cost of repairs and how to prevent similar problems in the future.

Some of the most common reasons AC compressors stop working include:

• Dirty condenser coils
• Blocked suction lines
• Low refrigerant charge
• Incorrect suction line size
• Too much refrigerant
• Electrical problems
• Contaminants in the system
• Insufficient oil lubricant

Before AC compressors stop working altogether, they often display warning signs, like:

• Blowing warm air
• Frequently tripping the circuit breaker
• Shaking when the system is started
• Making strange noises

Regular air conditioner maintenance is the key to catching and fixing the problems that raise these red flags and to preventing future AC compressor failures.

It can sometimes be difficult to decide when to call professional HVAC technicians for AC repair versus when to attempt a DIY fix. If you notice any of these problems, however, it’s best to contact experts for a professional diagnosis:

• Frequent on and off cycling: This is often referred to as a “hard start” and can be caused by an electrical problem within the compressor.
• Reduced cooling: If your home or office doesn’t seem as cool as usual, your AC compressor may have stopped working properly due to suction issues.
• Overheating: Overheating can certainly make your AC compressor stop working due to faulty wiring or motor issues.

Preventative Maintenance & Care

The best way to stay ahead of major AC compressor failures is with regular preventative maintenance. Our experts can perform compressor inspections and tune-ups to ensure proper operation.

We can also regulate realistic temperature settings so you can have peace of mind that your AC system will run efficiently. Other benefits of routine AC compressor maintenance include:

• Replace aging compressors before they fail
• Spot small issues before they become costly AC emergencies
• Maintain energy efficiency with a properly tuned compressor

Trust the Jacob Heating & Air Conditioning team to help you decide when your AC compressor needs repair versus replacement. We’ll help you weigh your options.

AC compressor problems can escalate quickly and lead to system-wide failure if ignored. If your air conditioner is showing signs of compressor trouble, professional diagnosis can help prevent costly breakdowns and restore reliable cooling.