As an important part of your home's central air conditioning system, the compressor is responsible for converting the electricity it receives into the energy required for the system's integral functions, such as refrigerant circulation. When the compressor no longer works properly and either does not kick on or continuously shuts down, the system will not be able to keep up with your home's cooling needs.
When the compressor starts to have issues, you may hear the system strain and shake or notice that the air in your home has become warm and humid. There are a couple of possible reasons why your central AC system's compressor is no longer working properly, both of which will need to be fixed by an HVAC repair technician.
1. There Is an Issue With the Power Supply System That Feeds the Air Conditioner's Compressor
One possible reason why the compressor in your home's central AC system is no longer working correctly is that there is an issue with the power supply system feeding it. The way this system works is that the wiring sends electricity to the capacitor. The capacitor stores energy to be used to supply the starter relay, which is what gives the initial energy needed to start the compressor.
If the wiring, capacitor, or starter relay become worn out or damaged, the supply of electricity to the compressor will become intermittent or cut off completely. You will need to have a repair technician inspect the power supply system to see what part needs to be repaired or replaced.
2. There Is Too Much Dirt and Grime on the Coils, Making the Compressor Overheat and Shut Down
Another possible reason why the compressor may be kicking off prematurely and having difficulting restarting is that there is too much dirt and grime on the coils. These coils are responsible for releasing the heat built up within the air conditioning system.
If they become covered with dirt, dust, and other grime, the release of heat will be blocked, making the compressor overheat and shut down. Because of the fragile nature of these coils, only a professional should examine and clean them instead of trying to do the job yourself.
When the AC system's compressor refuses to work correctly, there may be an issue with the power supply system, such as a malfunctioning starter relay or capacitor. Or, the coils may be covered in grime that inhibits the release of heat and makes the compressor overheat and shut down. Since either of these issues require the assistance of a professional, you should not attempt to fix the problem yourself. Instead, contact a business that offers air conditioning compressor repair services to speak with someone to schedule an on-site service call.
Contact a local AC compressor repair service to learn more.
