Compressors can’t stay cool under pressure
Compressor overheating often starts with dirty condenser coils that trap heat outside your AC unit, forcing the compressor to work harder than it should.
An undersized air conditioner for your home creates constant strain on the compressor, leading to overheating and higher electricity bills you don't need.
Keeping your outdoor unit clear of debris and changing filters regularly helps prevent compressor overheating before it becomes a costly problem.
Hiring a local electrical professional provides safe troubleshooting when you suspect electrical issues or refrigerant problems, keeping your AC running smoothly and your home comfortable.
Compressors are key components of air conditioners. They pressurize the air and refrigerant so that blissfully cold air flows freely through your home on hot days. Just like any other mechanical part, though, compressors can overheat or wear out. If your AC isn’t functioning like it used to, you might have an AC compressor that’s overheating. Here are five symptoms to watch for and what you can do before calling the HVAC pros.
Air conditioner condenser coils sit in the outside AC unit. If you’ve ever stood by your outdoor unit and noticed a hot breeze, you’ve felt the unit doing its job releasing the hot air from your home. But when the coils get dirty, that hot air can stagnate and virtually turn your home into a reptile enclosure.
When dust, dirt, and other debris fall into your outdoor AC components, they can cake up on the coils, causing them to work overtime. Coils don’t need to be cleaned as frequently as filters, but be mindful if weather conditions are particularly windy or dusty. Dirty coils get overheated easily, and the compressor can quickly follow suit.
Air conditioners are complex machines with several moving parts. If these parts are poorly maintained, the AC won't cool your home as efficiently as it could.
There are basic tasks in AC maintenance that you can do yourself, like regularly cleaning and changing filters in window units. However, if you have a more complex system than window units, you should hire an HVAC expert to create a maintenance plan tailored to your specific HVAC system and household needs. The pros can also help you determine if it’s worth replacing components that are getting too costly to maintain or if it’s a better use of your money to replace your AC unit entirely.
Every home is different, and air conditioners are not universal "plug and play" devices. Even if your AC is professionally installed, it won't efficiently cool your home if it's just too small.
Think about how it would take an artist forever to fill a large canvas using a tiny brush meant for details. They'll end up with a sore shoulder that makes them unable to finish other work. That's what will happen with an AC that's too small for your home: It will strain itself to the point of the AC compressor overheating, rendering the entire system inoperable.
It may be tempting to save money by getting a smaller unit. However, this will cost you money in the long run when the AC has to work overtime, you have to pay more in electricity bills, and parts get worn out sooner. Before buying a new system, work with a pro to determine what size AC unit you need for your home.
Electrical circuitry is incredibly complex, and your air conditioner needs electricity to run. Any number of electrical problems can make a compressor overheat. These can include a blown fuse, an electrical line fault, a broken capacitor, or short-circuiting from a surge in voltage.
If you suspect that your AC problem is electrical, do not handle it yourself. Contact a local electrician who can safely inspect the area. You should get in touch with one right away if you smell burning, as this is an alarming symptom of an AC compressor overheating due to an electrical rather than a mechanical issue.
Liquid refrigerant is a crucial element of air conditioners. It converts the unwanted heat in your home to life-renewing cool air. If your unit is low on refrigerant, the compressor is like a heart trying to pump under high blood pressure and constricted blood flow: It will have to work a lot harder to pump efficiently. This causes the compressor to overheat.
Your unit might need a refrigerant refill. If you smell a sweet but chemical smell near the unit outside, that's a sign that the refrigerant line has ruptured. In this case, you need to get an HVAC professional over right away. Refrigerant is extremely dangerous, and only licensed professionals with the proper training and permits should handle it.
Great company! Price was competitive, technician showed up on time and completed the job (exterior electric Radon fan replacement) quickly. Would hire them again.
MaGen Property Inspections and Radon MitigationAs usual with ECO, tech Jordan was outstanding, very professional, very knowledgeable, and very thorough with repairs made to tankless water heaters. Very highly recommend ECO!!!
Eco Plumbers, Electricians, and HVAC TechniciansRaven and crew does absolutely fantastic job. They are very professional if any concerns were to occur with any of her work she always took responsibility and finished out with a great job. I have worked with her business for a year and have always been satisfied. Very trusted business and...
Creations of Transformation LLCI would recommend this company to anyone! He showed up on time, was friendly, completed a very difficult repair on our dryer vent cover, was responsive, and pricing was extremely fair and competitive. I would have him back to do any of our repairs or cleanings without hesitation!
U.S.A. Dryer Vent, LLCAce Fireplace Services' chimney sweep service is truly exceptional. They used advanced technology to ensure a thorough cleaning process, and my chimney has never looked better. I highly recommend their services.
Ace Fireplace ServicesThe technician was very professional and friendly. He answered all my questions and was very thorough. He left the fireplace area very clean . He inspected from the roof and advised me as to other work that might need to be done. There was no pressure there. I was very satisfied with the...
Supreme brick & chimneyExcellent experience with hiring Tether House to Mount our 77’ Samsung TV in our bedroom. Fast, friendly, and knowledgeable. Highly recommend.
Tether HouseOn time, clean and finished fast. Windows seem sturdy and the finish is good. Caulking was done with no smudges. Would recommend.
Window Depot USA of Central OhioGreat job...edging and pre clean up went well with a great job with seal coat. Friendly, efficient and professional.
All Star Paving and SealingGood workers and they do a good job.
Mira ConstructionFrom average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Find out the average AC freon leak repair cost, key price factors, and how to save. Get transparent estimates and expert tips for homeowners.
Explore how much an AC compressor costs to install based on cost factors like it’s type, brand, size, and local labor rates.
Your AC can overheat for several reasons, such as lack of maintenance and clogged air filters. Learn why your air conditioner is overheating.
Is your AC freezing up? This is a common problem for AC units. Learn how to tell if your AC is frozen, plus how to fix a frozen AC unit.
Facing an issue with your HVAC system? Troubleshoot these common HVAC problems to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home.
How long do air conditioner coils last? Find out the average lifespan, factors that impact it, signs it’s time to replace your coils, and more.
