How To Tell if Your AC Compressor Is Bad in Winston-Salem, NC

When your air conditioner starts acting up during our hot North Carolina summers, you might be wondering how to know if your AC compressor is bad. The compressor is the heart of your cooling system, responsible for circulating refrigerant and creating the cool air that keeps your home comfortable. 

If you’re experiencing cooling problems, you need reliable HVAC repair services in Winston-Salem, NC, to diagnose and fix the issue. In this guide, Automated Comfort Systems will explain all the signs of a bad compressor in detail. 

Symptoms of a Bad AC Compressor in Winston-Salem, NC

Recognizing the first warning signs of compressor failure can help you take action before a complete system breakdown occurs. Your compressor may show several symptoms when it’s starting to fail. Here are the key indicators:

Strange AC Noises

Unusual sounds from your air conditioning unit often signal compressor problems. You might hear grinding, rattling, or banging noises that weren’t there before, especially during startup. 

These sounds typically indicate worn bearings, loose components, or internal damage within the compressor itself. The vibrations from a failing compressor can be strong enough to hear from inside your home.

Warm Air From Vents

If you’re wondering how to know if your AC compressor is bad, it’s likely because your home is starting to feel uncomfortable. When your AC blows warm air instead of cool air, your compressor may not be functioning properly.

The compressor’s job is to pressurize refrigerant and facilitate the heat exchange process that creates cool air. If it can’t do this effectively, your system won’t produce the cold air needed to combat Winston-Salem’s temperatures that regularly reach the upper eighties..

The Compressor Not Turning On

If your outdoor unit isn’t starting up at all, you may have a compressor issue affecting your home’s cooling. However, before assuming that an AC compressor failure is the issue, check your circuit breaker and air filter first, as these simpler problems can prevent your system from starting. 

Sometimes, electrical issues in older homes can mimic compressor problems. A compressor that won’t turn on at all often indicates electrical failure or internal mechanical damage that requires professional diagnostics.

Tripped Circuit Breakers

A compressor drawing too much power can cause your circuit breaker to trip repeatedly. This electrical issue often indicates internal problems, damaged wiring, or components that are working harder due to age and wear. 

If your breaker keeps tripping even after you reset it, this represents a serious electrical problem that requires immediate professional attention. The demands of a failing compressor can stress your home’s electrical system, requiring prompt repairs before you face fire hazards.

Reduced Airflow

When your compressor struggles to function, it affects your entire system’s performance. You might notice weaker airflow from your vents, even though your fan is running normally and making its usual sounds. 

This reduction in airflow often accompanies other compressor problems and indicates that your system isn’t building proper pressure. Poor airflow can make it difficult to maintain comfortable temperatures, especially in larger Winston-Salem homes.

System Short Cycling

A failing compressor may cause your AC to turn on and off frequently without completing full cooling cycles. This short cycling puts extra strain on your entire system and significantly increases energy costs during our hot summer months. Short cycling also prevents proper humidity removal.

Fixing Your Compressor 

When we talk about how to know if your AC compressor is bad, know that only skilled technicians can accurately diagnose your unit and restore the system with precise repairs. Here’s what the repair process typically involves:

• Safety first: Turn off the power to your AC unit before any inspection or repair work begins.
• A professional assessment: A certified technician will test electrical connections, refrigerant levels, and functionality.
• Repairs or replacement: Depending on the damage, your compressor may need repairs or a complete replacement.
• A system flush: If replacement is necessary, the entire refrigerant system typically requires flushing to remove contaminants.
• A refrigerant recharge: After repairs, the system needs proper refrigerant levels to function correctly.

Regular AC maintenance can prevent many compressor problems and extend your system’s lifespan.