When your air conditioner stops cooling your home, the problem might be the compressor. This is one of the most important and expensive parts of your AC system. Compressor failure is serious, but it usually happens over time due to problems that could have been prevented.
At ABS Heating & Air, we believe that informed customers make better decisions. Here’s what every homeowner in Ocala and the surrounding areas should know about what causes compressor failure and how to avoid it.
The compressor is like the heart of your air conditioner. It pushes refrigerant through the system so heat can be removed from your home. If it stops working, your AC can’t cool the air. Replacing a compressor is often expensive, which is why prevention is key.
Knowing what leads to compressor problems can help you avoid repairs and extend the life of your HVAC system.
When the coils or air filter in your system are dirty, airflow becomes restricted. This makes your air conditioner work harder than it should. Over time, the extra strain can cause the compressor to overheat and wear out early.
Pro Tip:
Replace your air filters every one to three months. Schedule professional maintenance at the start of the heating and cooling seasons to keep everything running smoothly.
Your AC system needs the right amount of refrigerant to move heat out of your home. If the system develops a leak and refrigerant runs low, the compressor has to work harder. This extra effort can cause it to overheat and eventually fail.
Warning signs to look for:
If you notice any of these signs, reach out to a licensed HVAC professional right away.
The compressor depends on a reliable power supply. Faulty wiring, bad capacitors, or worn contactors can cause voltage issues that may damage the compressor.
What you can do:
Schedule routine inspections. During maintenance, your technician should check all electrical components and connections, especially before the summer heat arrives.
If your air conditioner is not the right size for your home, it may turn on and off too often. This is known as short cycling and can wear out the compressor. Poor installation practices can also affect performance.
Helpful Tip:
When installing a new system, make sure your contractor performs a proper load calculation to size the equipment correctly for your home.
Many compressor issues can be avoided with regular air conditioner maintenance. A trained technician can catch small problems before they cause bigger and more expensive damage.
Extra benefit:
Some manufacturers look at your service records when processing warranty claims. Having proof of regular maintenance could help protect your investment.
If your air conditioner is blowing warm air, making unusual noises, or cycling on and off too often, those are signs something is wrong. Acting early can help prevent compressor damage.
ABS Heating & Air proudly serves Ocala, Belleview, and surrounding areas. Our team is trained, certified, and focused on honest, high-quality service.
A failed compressor is one of the most serious air conditioning problems a homeowner can face. But with the right care and maintenance, you can avoid it. Take small steps now to prevent major repairs later.
If your system is acting up, we’re here to help. Call ABS Heating & Air to schedule a tune-up or request a free estimate today.