The ducted air conditioning system in your home allows for a cool and comfortable environment through even the hottest summer days. The compressor is responsible for making refrigerant into gas to create cold air. It's, therefore, one of the most critical components of your air conditioning system -- and if it fails, you'll be left with an unbearably hot home and a potentially costly repair. If you look out for indicators of air conditioner compressor problems, you may just be able to set the problem right early on -- before the cost gets too high. Here are three signs to watch for:
A Ticking Noise: Yes, it Could be a Ticking Time Bomb
If you hear a ticking noise (it may sometimes resemble a chatter instead) the compressor is likely the culprit. This noise usually happens either when you first switch the air conditioning unit on, or when it cycles on automatically. Whilst a ticking noise doesn't mean your compressor has failed (you'll still have cool air at this point) it does mean that failure is likely imminent. When your compressor is beginning to fail, it struggles to switch on, and the ticking is the auditory evidence of this struggle. If you don't ask an HVAC contractor help, you'll soon hear only silence -- and get no cool air -- when you try to switch the air conditioning on.
A Rumble: Rumbling is Always Troubling
Rather than a ticking noise whilst starting the air conditioner, you might hear a rumbling noise. This is often an indicator that the compressor motor mounts have loosened or even completely failed. The rumbling noise happens because the motor that works within the compressor is no longer held in place -- it's bouncing about within the sealed unit. With this problem, it's unsafe to use the air conditioning unit until you have an HVAC contractor replace the compressor motor mounts and secure the motor inside the compressor.
Water Leaks or Condensation: Dripping Into Disaster
When you notice pools of water -- or even just significant condensation -- anywhere around your air conditioning system, it's usually a sign that you have a refrigerant leak. The refrigerant leaves by way of the compressor, gradually draining the system of what it needs to supply your home with refrigerated air. If your compressor is leaking refrigerant, your family could be exposed to health problems like lung irritation and headaches -- in addition to the fact that the home will eventually become sweltering once all the refrigerant is gone. Your HVAC contractor can correct this issue easily if you ask for help right away, but leaks are always best handled by the pros.
Have you noticed any of the three compressor related problems above? HVAC contractors can help, and the sooner you address the problem, the better. Call today for help!