Why is My AC Compressor Not Turning On? And How to Easily Fix

Nobody wants to face a hot summer and a faulty AC compressor. Your household will go insane. Your home heats up. Your kids will get grumpy. And indeed, you will hand glasses of cold lemonade as fast as you can. We would not wish this situation on anyone. Clearly, heat is not a joke. 

There are several reasons why your AC compressor is not turning on. In this article, we’ll discuss just that. We’ll also dive into how you will know if your AC compressor problem is severe. Moreover, talk about how to fix every AC compressor problem easily. Let’s get started. 

What Is an AC Compressor?

An AC compressor is a critical part found in an air conditioning unit. It is responsible for cooling the air. The piece takes all of the hot air in your home. It then transfers it outside using the cooling agent referred to as refrigerant. 

How Does an Air Conditioning Compressor Work?

An air conditioning compressor functions in two ways. 

Firstly, it squeezes the refrigerant molecules together and works as a pump. It circulates the refrigerant through the system. As the refrigerator makes its way to the evaporator, it absorbs the heat from inside your home. It transforms it into a gas. The gas is squeezed and heated further by the compressor. It turns it into a hot liquid. After, it is cooled outdoors by the condenser coil. 

Secondly, pressure is reduced as the refrigerant returns to the evaporator to redo the cycle. It takes place at the expansion valve. It permits the refrigerant to soak heat more efficiently and turn into a gas. 

Top Reasons Why Your Air Conditioner Compressor Is Not Working

If you find your compressor not working, the first thing to do is analyze the power supply. The unit could have simply been unplugged. If not, there may be a more severe issue at hand. 

Below are the top reasons AC compressors stop working. 

• Dirty condenser coils 
• Blocked suction lines 
• Low refrigerant charge
• Inaccurate suction line size
• Excessive refrigerant 
• Electrical problems 
• Contaminants in the system 
• Lack of oil lubricant 

Before your AC compressor acts up, it often shows warning signs. These are: 

• Blowing hot air 
• Frequently tripping the circuit breaker 
• Making strange noises 
• Shaking when the system starts 

How Do I Know if My AC Compressor Problem Is Serious

If you experience any of these dilemmas, it’s best to connect with experts. They ought to give you a professional diagnosis. 

1. Constant on-and-off cycling 

It is often known as a hard start. It can be due to an electrical problem within the compressor. 

2. Reduced cooling 

If your space doesn’t seem as cool as usual, your compression may have stopped working correctly. It is also due to suction issues.

3. Overheating 

Overheating can make your AC compressor stop working. It is because of motor problems or faulty wiring. 

Troubleshooting AC Compressor Problems

1. Check for tripped breakers. 

Find the breaker for the air conditioner. It is located in the service panel. If it looks tripped, turn it all the way off. Then, turn it back on. It resets the control board. It gets your system running if the issue is minor. 

2. Test the thermostat 

Ensure the thermostat is set correctly. It must have fresh batteries. Inadvertent modifications to the settings could impede the air conditioning. 

3. Listen for buzzing 

When the system is trying to launch, go outside to the condenser unit. Suppose the AC compressor begins buzzing, and the system does not turn on. The start capacitor may need changing. 

4. Listen for clicking 

As the AC compressor engages, you should hear a noticeable click. In its absence, or when you hear a repeated clicking and the compressor fails to begin, the start relay may be impaired. 

Why Is My AC Compressor Not Working, Yet the Condenser Fan Is Still Running?

1. Compressor shuts down for safety prevention 
2. Dirty filter 
3. Dirty condenser coil 
4. Refrigerant levels have to be right 
5. Electrical problems 
6. Your capacitor failed 

How Long Does an AC Compressor Last?

Ac compressors should serve you for 10-15 years. This is the case when the air conditioner is regularly maintained. 

The compressor works hard. Therefore, it undergoes regular wear and tear. Yet, it has to work much harder when you neglect air conditioning maintenance. You increase the chances of ending up with a faulty AC compressor with it. 

How to Take Care of Your AC Compressor: AC Compressor Maintenance

1. Follow the instruction manual. 

The best way to take care of your air compressor is to read and comply with the instruction manual that comes with it. Read and learn before using your air compressor. It gives ways and tips to execute an air compressor maintenance properly. 

2. Drain tank moisture 

Suppose you are based in a humid environment. The air compressor tan will accumulate moisture faster. Most air compressors have draining valves. You ought to ensure these valves are drained regularly. Moreover, release the air first prior to draining the water. 

3. Tighten fastener 

As you use your air compressor over time, the vibration will cause screws, nuts, and bolts to loosen. It is a smart move to check these parts regularly. Fasten them to ensure your AC compressor is working optimal. 

4. Check and change air filters if needed. 

A heavy pile of dust and dirt in your air filter may cause your compressor to take in some of these residues. In times of occurrence, it is forced to work harder than it should. It also lowers the output capacity of the power tool. 

Make an effort to check air filters regularly. Change them if the build-up is beyond heavy. 

5. Maintain cleanliness of the intake vents. 

Check the intake vents of your compressor regularly, too. Ensure they are clean. Taking in dirt and dust causes your air conditioner to work harder. Not to mention, it is the culprit of overheating quickly. It is especially vital if your air compressor is located in a dusty environment. 

6. Check and change compressor oil. 

Compressor oil plays a critical part in how the air compressor works. It acts as a lubricant and a cooling agent. It safeguards it to overheat quickly. Also, it prevents its parts from wearing out. 

Read through the instructions in the manual. Know the frequency of changing compressor oil and what oil you should use. 

7. Regularly check the hoses. 

The hoses serve as the vein of your air compressor. Thus, they also require proper maintenance. Ensure that they are cleaned regularly. Make sure there are no indications of corrosion and cracks. Any strain on these hoses can gravely influence all other parts of the power tool. It can negatively impact its performance.