The compressor inside your air conditioner is crucial to ensuring your home stays cool and comfortable this summer. If it is malfunctioning or broken, the air entering your home will be the same temperature as the warm air outside. The compressor is the first stop for the refrigerant, which means if it’s not working properly, your air conditioner isn’t either. Failing to have a malfunctioning or broken compressor fixed in a timely fashion can lead to a higher energy bill and an expensive repair. You can avoid both of these unnecessary costs by watching for these five warning signs that your compressor is failing:

1. Clog or Leak in the Line: If you notice an excess of condensation or fluid, the refrigerant lines inside your air conditioner could be clogged or leaking. Your compressor won’t work if it is not receiving a sufficient amount of refrigerant. In this case, you need to have your lines checked and repaired.
2. Faulty Compressor: If your air conditioner is blowing hot air, it may be that the compressor has suffered due to poor maintenance or a factory recall. You need to have your compressor professionally tested and replaced if necessary.
3. Age: Your air conditioner works hard pumping cool air into your home. After a few long summers under its belt, it is not uncommon for the compressor to deteriorate and break down. If this happens, replacing the compressor will put your air conditioner back in action.
4. Bad Capacitor: The capacitor in your compressor provides the jolt of power it needs to start working. If your capacitor is busted, your compressor isn’t receiving adequate power. In this case, you need to replace the capacitor to restore your compressor to working order.
5.  Poor Electrical Connections: If the wiring to your compressor is faulty, it may function only intermittently or constantly, which can lead to either a very hot house or a very high energy bill. You need to have your electrical connections checked and possibly rewired.

So don’t go one second with warm air from your A/C unit this summer. Call Essig at (610) 557-3302 today!