A "dead compressor" can be one of the most devastating events that can occur to your AC system. The compressor is an important - and therefore expensive - part of your AC system. Without a working compressor, your air conditioner simply won't work.
Some HVAC service providers will suggest that you replace the entire system if your compressor fails. However, this is not always the case. If you are wondering if you should replace an AC compressor, here are 3 possible scenarios for when your AC system compressor fails.
Compressor as the "heart" of your AC system
The air conditioner compressor is the "heart" of your AC system. It is where energy is injected into the refrigerant to turn it into a "high pressure" gas, which then undergoes a heat exchange cycle to cool your home.
Think of the compressor as the "engine room" of your system. It pumps the "blood" throughout the entire system. When it dies, your entire system is reduced to a "central fan".
Why the compressor fails in the first place
You may be wondering why your compressor stopped working. Let's look at some of the reasons why compressor can fail.
The most common cause of compressor failure is loss of refrigerant. A lack of refrigerant causes the compressor to overheat. On the other hand, too much refrigerant can get into the system and cause a breakdown. That's why it's best to have a professional add refrigerant.
Lack of motor lubrication can lead to premature death in any complicated piece of machinery with moving parts. Technicians will check the compressor during annual maintenance and lubricate the motor if necessary.
Outdoor coils can also get dirty. Dirt, dust and grass can build up on the coils and increase the pressure in the system, causing the compressor to fail. A blocked suction line can also cause refrigerant to back up.
Options to consider when your AC compressor is dead
If your AC system has a dead compressor, you have three options.
The first is to replace the compressor if it is still under warranty. However, this is a very expensive option for an older AC system. Replacing the compressor with a new AC system can be a more cost-effective option because you will have a brand new AC system that is under warranty and will last for 10 to 15 years.
The second option is to replace the condenser, which is the outdoor unit that houses the compressor, condenser fan, and condenser coil. However, reputable HVAC specialists do not recommend this because such a replacement will result in a mismatched system as the old parts try to keep up with the new ones.
The third option is to replace the air conditioning system. Replacing the air conditioning system can be the most cost effective thing to do, resulting in a brand new air conditioner with another 10-15 year warranty running in a more energy efficient manner.
At the end of the day, your trusted HVAC contractor should be the one to evaluate the degree of problems with your air conditioner and advise you with the option that suits you best.
Are you experiencing problems with your AC system or its components? Call us today or leave your request for a free consultation and we will get back to you as soon as possible. Operating in Philadelphia and a 50 mile radius area, we at AC Comfort HVAC LLC will provide you with a solution that will best tailor to your needs.
