The compressor is one of the most important parts of your air conditioning system. It pressurizes the system and keeps the refrigerant running through the lines. This is what allows your unit to cool your home. It is normally located outdoors, and it can suffer wear and tear over time. You need to know what to look for so that you can take care of it when it needs a repair. Read on to learn how to tell if the AC compressor is bad.

You Hear New Noises Coming From the Compressor

If you start to hear an unusual noise coming from the compressor, you should look into it. There are a lot of different noises that are clues to what might be wrong. For example, if it has trouble turning on and makes sputtering noises, this is a sign that it is going bad. If it has a leak, you can hear squealing types of noises. Other issues might cause a grinding noise. If you hear strange noises, you should call and have someone take a look.

Repairing a problem early may help you save your system. Your AC compressor and unit are one of the more expensive items in your home, so it is worthwhile to stay on top of repairs and service. If you hear any strange noises, it is a good idea to have a service call and get ahead of any potential problems.

You Notice the AC Leaking Moisture

There are a lot of possible reasons that your AC is leaking, and some are related to your compressor. It could be dirty or clogged coils, but your compressor could be leaking refrigerant. The refrigerant has Freon in it, which is the gas that allows your AC to cool. It is a highly regulated substance, and it can cause health problems, so you should call to have it checked by a licensed technician.

It is important to have it looked at quickly because you may be able to make repairs rather than having to replace the unit. When your air conditioner is leaking, it is always a sign that something is wrong. It could be that your ducts or coils are dirty and clogged, but it could be more serious. If it is the refrigerant, you will need a technician who is licensed to handle Freon. They may be able to repair the leak and add Freon to your system.

You Notice That Your Air Flow Changes

If you notice that your air conditioner isn’t blowing air through the vents as strongly as it did before, you might have a bad air compressor. You also might notice that the air coming through the vents isn’t as cold as it should be. When your compressor goes bad, it won’t be able to regulate the refrigerant that cools the coils and leads to cold air. It might come on gradually, so pay attention if you think you notice this happening. Often you will notice these signs before your compressor fails, and you may be able to have it repaired.

When your AC compressor is working, you will notice that your vents blow cool air into the rooms in your home. They should be consistent, and they should match the setting on your thermostat. Unfortunately, AC compressors suffer wear and tear over time. Many different elements can cause them to stop working properly.

Fortunately, there are signs that you will notice when the compressor for your air conditioning starts to go bad. You might hear strange noises, and you might notice moisture leaking inside or from the compressor itself. You might notice that the air coming through your vents isn’t as strong or as cool. Any of these are signs that your compressor might be going bad, and you should have it checked as soon as possible before it quits working altogether.