It’s time for more insider tips from the HVAC experts at Northwest Exteriors! Living in California is like living in paradise, especially when it comes to the weather. Endless sunny days are why we love it here. But during the warmer months, things can get pretty steamy on the West Coast, making AC our favorite and most essential perk. When you’ve just endured a few hours on endless freeways and need to cool down, that AC better be working. Problem is, sometimes it goes kaput just when you need it most. The culprit could be a conked-out compressor.

How to Tell If Your AC Compressor Is Bad – A Guide from Northwest Exteriors

A lot of us have experienced it; your AC is slacking on a hot summer’s day, leaving you sweating inside your home, the place that’s meant to be your refuge from sweltering weather. When you put your hand over a vent, you feel no airflow, or it may even be hot air. Clearly, this is a sign of something amiss. Summertime is the time when a cool home interior is crucial for beating the heat. If your AC suddenly blows warm or not at all, you may have a bad compressor.

Your AC compressor is the heart of your cooling system, responsible for circulating refrigerant and keeping your home comfortable during the hot months. However, when the compressor starts to fail, your entire HVAC system can suffer. Knowing the signs of a bad AC compressor can help you take action before a complete system breakdown occurs.

Not all symptoms of compressor failure are obvious, but some early warning signs are easier to spot than others. Below, we’ll walk you through the key indicators of a failing compressor, from unusual noises to diminished cooling performance.

Signs of a Bad AC Compressor

1. Chattering or Ticking Noise

A healthy AC compressor should run quietly. However, if you start to hear a chattering or ticking noise when your system turns on, this could be a sign of electrical relay switch issues. Hard-starting is a common problem in aging compressors, and this ticking sound is often the first clue. Since this issue involves electrical components, it’s best to call a trained HVAC technician for a thorough inspection and repair.

2. Clicking, Rumbling, or Rattling Noise

Another alarming AC compressor symptom involves clicking or rattling noises when your AC starts. This could indicate that the motor mounts inside the compressor have loosened, allowing the motor to thrash around. A loose compressor motor can quickly lead to more severe damage, so calling an HVAC expert is essential to prevent further issues.

3. Moisture or Refrigerant Leaks

If you notice puddles forming around your AC unit, it could be due to refrigerant leaks. A leaking compressor can cause refrigerant to escape, which not only reduces cooling efficiency but also poses health risks such as headaches, nausea, and irritation. If left unaddressed, your AC system may eventually stop working altogether.

Subtle Symptoms of a Bad AC Compressor

While loud noises and leaks are clear signs of trouble, there are other, more subtle symptoms of a bad AC compressor that you shouldn’t ignore. These warning signs may not seem urgent at first but can lead to significant HVAC issues if left unchecked.

4. Diminished Airflow

One of the first signs of a failing compressor is reduced airflow coming from your vents. The compressor is responsible for circulating cool air, and if it starts struggling, you’ll notice weaker airflow throughout your home. This could also indicate clogged ductwork, so it’s best to have an HVAC technician assess the situation.

5. Warm Air Instead of Cool Air

Another common issue with a bad AC compressor is warm air blowing from your vents. If your AC is running but not cooling, it could mean the compressor isn’t properly circulating refrigerant. A professional can determine if the issue is due to low refrigerant levels or a failing compressor.

6. AC System Frequently Tripping the Breaker

If your AC is repeatedly causing your circuit breaker to trip, it could be due to an overworking compressor. A faulty compressor can draw excessive power, leading to electrical overloads. This is a serious issue that should be addressed immediately by an HVAC professional.

7. High Energy Bills

A struggling compressor has to work harder to keep your home cool, leading to increased energy consumption. If you’ve noticed a sudden spike in your energy bills without a change in usage, your compressor could be to blame. Replacing a bad compressor can help restore efficiency and lower your energy costs.

What to Do If You Suspect a Bad AC Compressor

If you’ve noticed any of these bad AC compressor symptoms, it’s crucial to take action before your system completely fails. The HVAC professionals at Northwest Exteriors can diagnose the issue and provide reliable repair or replacement solutions that are ideal for your needs.

Ignoring the warning signs of a failing compressor can lead to a complete system breakdown, leaving you without cooling during the hottest months of the year. Whether you’re dealing with bad AC compressor symptoms, noise, refrigerant leaks, or poor cooling performance, our team is here to help.

Contact Northwest Exteriors for Expert HVAC Services

Don’t let a failing compressor leave you sweltering in the summer heat. At Northwest Exteriors, we specialize in HVAC repairs, maintenance, and system replacements. If you’re wondering how to tell if your AC compressor is bad or how to know if your AC compressor is bad, our experienced technicians can provide a thorough assessment and recommend the best course of action.

Contact us today to schedule an inspection and keep your home cool and comfortable all year round.