The core of an air conditioning system is the compressor, which is located in the outdoor condenser cabinet. When an AC switches into cooling, the compressor makes a noticeable humming noise that you probably associate with all air conditioners: that’s the indication the process that creates the heat exchange cycle to remove warmth from your home has started. The compressor increases the pressure of refrigerant by decreasing its volume; the refrigerant changes into a hot, high pressure gas and starts on its path through the air conditioning system until it returns to the compressor.
A compressor resembles a motor in the way it operates, but it needs its own motor to run. Compressor motor faults are serious because they threaten to stop the heat exchange cycle. If you suspect a failing compressor motor, contact Carney Plumbing Heating & Cooling right away for air conditioning repair in Quakertown, PA. We offer same day service, your satisfaction guaranteed.
Why motor faults are bad news for the compressor
The compressor motor is similar to most motors: it can suffer from excess stress due to overwork, loss of lubrication, and dirty components. Other problems a motor can encounter include loose wires and a bad start relay. When the motor starts to suffer from extra strain, the air conditioner will begin to “hard start”—i.e. the compressor will struggle to turn on, and it may only work for a short period before it shuts off again. This puts stress on the compressor as well, and it drains large amounts of energy that will lead to an increase on your bills.
The biggest threat from a malfunctioning compressor motor is not that the motor will burn out and stop moving the compressor; that’s a serious issue that will require a technician change out the motor. The biggest danger is that the hard starting will cause the compressor to overheat and burn-out. A burn-out compressor can rarely be fixed. Replacing the compressor is costly, and often it means that the whole air conditioner must be replaced.
When you hear a grinding or screeching sound from the condenser cabinet, it probably means a motor is malfunctioning. Call for repairs immediately before the problem spreads to the compressor. Also call for technicians if the air conditioner begins to hard start.
If you act soon enough, skilled repair technicians can often fix the problem quickly and thoroughly so it will not start up again. However, in cases of aged ACs, sometimes a new installation is the best solution when the compressor and its motor have worn down too far.
Carney Plumbing Heating & Cooling has served Quakertown, PA with air conditioning repair for over 30 years. Trust us with your AC’s motor trouble.