Sep 8, 2025 | Michael Jestadt
Signs of a Bad Air Conditioner Compressor
If you are a homeowner living in hot climatic conditions, then your air conditioner will be in continuous usage to maintain comfort in your home. The compressor is the most important component in the air conditioner, so if it fails, the overall system will fail. But, before completely shutting off the system, your compressor will give you some signs of an existing or a new problem. In this article, we will explore the signs of a bad air conditioner compressor so that you can be ready to get it repaired.
What Is an AC Compressor and What Does It Do?
The AC compressor is also referred to as the heart of the air conditioner, as it is a crucial component. Refrigerant is highly important for maintaining cooling in your home; without it, the air conditioner cannot cool your house. The compressor circulates the refrigerant through the system.
To provide cooling, the refrigerant should undergo a cycle. The cycle involves turning the refrigerant gas into a liquid and then back into a gas. To complete this whole process, a compressor and other components of the air conditioner are required. The compressor uses heat and energy to convert refrigerant into a gas. This gas is then sent to the condenser, where the heat is released, and it again turns into liquid. The refrigerant is sent into the coils inside the house. These coils absorb heat and moisture from the home and turn the refrigerant into a gas. Again, the refrigerant returns to the compressor, and the cycle will be repeated.
Bad Air Conditioner Compressor Signs
High Electric Bills
Sometimes you may notice a sudden increase in electricity bills even though you are using it normally. The reason could be your faulty air conditioner compressor. When it is not in proper working condition, it loses its efficiency, causing the system to work harder and resulting in higher electricity bills.
Unusual Noises
The noises, such as ticking, clicking, or chattering, of a burner can result in electrical problems. If the relay switch is making a clicking noise or struggles to turn on, then the relay switch might be damaged. If you hear any rattling noises while the motor is starting up, it can indicate loose motor mounts. These mounts are used to hold the motor in place and control vibrations. When these mounts get loose, the motor can bounce and make noises. If there are any electrical or motor issues in your compressor, it needs to be addressed by an HVAC expert.
No Cold Air
There might be many reasons for no cold air from the air vents. The reasons can be a blocked air filter, a condensate line, or leaks. If your device is blowing hot air, it may be due to a compressor issue. At the same time, other issues can be addressed by you by changing the filter, cleaning, and checking for any blocks in the drain pans and condensate lines. If these are not all the issues, then it will definitely be a compressor problem that requires an HVAC expert to rectify.
Circuit Breaker Problems
A bad air conditioner compressor can cause circuit breaker problems. If you are running more appliances at a time in your home, like a TV, a washing machine, a dishwasher, and an AC, breakers can trip frequently. If the breaker switch is hot, it indicates a serious warning sign. In such cases, you should call your HVAC expert immediately.
Heated Condenser Unit
A faulty air conditioner compressor can lead to major issues in the condenser and cause overheating. Ensure that the metal box has free space of at least three feet on all sides. The spaces provide sufficient ventilation for the device, helping it run efficiently. You don’t want your condenser to run longer than usual and cause your compressor to break down.
Puddles or Leaks
It’s completely normal to observe a little amount of condensation around your indoor or outdoor unit. The outdoor condenser unit cools the refrigerant into a liquid. When the temperature outside is not too high, moisture can form and collect on the copper coils and lines. If the water is in a small amount, it is not an issue. It dries out immediately.
Condensation also occurs on evaporator coils, which drip into a drain pan, and the water is then sent out through the drain line. If the drain is blocked, then there will be a puddle around the outdoor unit.
Hard Starting
A good working compressor should start smoothly whenever you turn on your AC. If you have observed that the AC is struggling to start or needs multiple attempts to start, then it can be a sign of a faulty compressor. This condition is called hard starting, which means the compressor is having difficulty working and can exhaust soon.
Conclusion
Maintaining your air conditioner and its compressor in good working condition is crucial for conserving energy, maintaining comfort, and preventing expensive repairs. From high energy bills to unusual noises and many more warning signs, your AC compressor gives you so that you can act immediately to avoid major problems. By addressing the warning signs mentioned above, you can improve the life of your AC and enjoy cooling all year round.
If you come across any of these signs, don’t wait until it turns into a major issue. Call Smart Heating and Air Conditioning today for expert Air conditioner repairs and maintenance. Our team is here to help you throughout the process and keep your home cool and efficient.
