Your air conditioner’s compressor is one of its most essential as well as the most expensive component. Often referred to as the “heart” of the cooling system, the compressor is responsible for circulating refrigerant through the air conditioner system and removing heat from your home. When it starts to fail, your comfort takes a hit, your energy bills rise, and your system could be headed for a costly breakdown. North Country Aire would like to share some of the early warning signs of a failing compressor that can help you act quickly and avoid major repairs or premature replacement.

Warm Air Instead of Cool Air

One of the first signs something’s wrong is when your air conditioner is running, but only warm or lukewarm air is coming out of the vents. This could mean the compressor is not compressing the refrigerant properly, which prevents effective heat transfer.

Loud or Strange Noises from the Outdoor AC Unit

If you hear rattling, grinding, clicking, or buzzing noises coming from your outdoor condenser unit, it may be a sign of loose parts, worn bearings, or internal failure within the compressor. Unusual noises should never be ignored, as they often point to a problem that could worsen if left untreated.

Circuit Breaker Keeps Tripping

A compressor that is overheating or pulling too much power can repeatedly trip your circuit breaker. This is a major red flag that something in your air conditioner system is working harder than it should be.

Vibrating or Shaking Outdoor AC Unit

Does your outdoor unit shake or vibrate noticeably when the system starts up? This is sometimes called “hard starting” and is a sign that the compressor is struggling to turn on or run properly.

Air Conditioner System Won’t Start

If the thermostat is set correctly, but your air conditioner will not turn on or turns on and quickly shuts off the compressor may have completely failed and can’t pump refrigerant anymore.

Reduced Airflow or Cooling Power

Even if your air conditioner is running, weak airflow or a home that never reaches the desired temperature can be a sign of reduced compressor efficiency.

What To Do If You Suspect Compressor Failure

• Turn off your system to prevent further damage.
• Check your air filter and thermostat settings to rule out simple fixes.
• Call a professional HVAC technician for a diagnostic inspection.
Attempting to repair or replace a compressor yourself is not safe or recommended. This is a job for licensed professionals.

Can an AC Compressor Be Repaired or Replaced?

In some cases, external components like capacitors or relays may be the culprit and can be easily replaced. However, if the compressor itself is damaged or seized, you may need:
• Compressor replacement
• Condenser unit replacement
• Or even a full system replacement, depending on the age and condition of your air conditioner unit
Your HVAC technician can help determine the most cost-effective solution.

Prevent Compressor Failure with Regular Maintenance

Routine air conditioner maintenance is your best defense against compressor issues. A seasonal tune-up includes:
• Cleaning condenser and evaporator coils
• Checking refrigerant levels
• Testing electrical components
• Ensuring proper system performance

Central Air Conditioning Inspection, Troubleshooting, Diagnosis, Repair, Tune Up Maintenance & More in Mora, Cambridge, St. Francis, Oak Grove, North Branch & Greater Isanti, Minnesota

If your air conditioner is showing signs of compressor trouble, don’t wait until it stops working altogether. Contact North Country Aire and schedule our services today.