Tips to Prevent HVAC Compressor Failure

The efficient functioning of your air conditioner in your Bay Area house is directly proportional to the cleaning and maintenance done for it. Being a system with multiple working parts, it needs to be inspected, cleaned, and serviced from time to time, in order to run smoothly and provide optimal cooling. Even if you do not have any technical issues, regular wear and tear can cause parts to get damaged over time. These must be repaired or replaced on time, to avoid putting pressure on your system.

The compressor is the heart of your HVAC. This is the part that ensures proper cooling for your home by compressing the refrigerant from a gas to a liquid. If the compressor is unable to pump refrigerant throughout the system, it will affect cooling. Any problem in the compressor will cost you in big repairs or expensive replacements. That is why, it is extremely important to prevent compressor failure.

Here are a few tips that can help you maintain the compressor well.

1. Inspect refrigerant leaks

One of the main causes of an AC suddenly facing cooling issues could be a leak in the refrigerant. If you do not detect and repair refrigerant leaks in time, the coolant level will drop heavily and put a lot of pressure on the system. The unit will get overworked and still be unable to provide the desired temperature. Too much pressure can cause the compressor to fail, and this is a huge expense to repair or replace.

2. Get the correct parts

Whenever you are getting any servicing or repairs done, make sure that the correct parts are fitted. If HVAC technicians lack proper knowledge, you may end up with wrong parts that are not compatible with your system. This will put an unnecessary strain on the unit causing damage to the compressor.

3. Choose well-trained HVAC technicians

In order to avoid human error or problems caused due to improper knowledge and experience, make sure you only hire technicians that are well-trained and have a lot of experience working with HVAC systems like yours. They will be able to detect problems better and suggest you the right corrective measures.

4. Ensure proper oil lubrication

Being one of the most important moving parts of your HVAC system, the compressor must receive proper oil lubrication, for it to run smoothly. Inspect and replace oil lubricants when required.

5. Keep coils clean

Coils covered in dirt and grime impede heat transfer. This, in turn, puts too much pressure on the compressor which is trying to expel heat. If the coils are clean, the entire cooling process can work smoothly.

6. Ensure suction lines are clear

Suction lines ensure that the unit does not take too much pressure. If suction lines are clear, it helps to prevent overheating as well, which is one of the main causes of compressor damage.

7. Check electrical wiring

Inspect and replace any damaged wiring or fuse during servicing, so that the compressor can run and refrigerant can be pumped properly.