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How To Fix An AC Compressor


We’re living in paradise in Florida, and we couldn’t do it without air conditioners. When an AC system runs all day in this type of climate, it’s inevitably going to break down or need service.

Why is an AC compressor important?

Each part of the unit needs to be in top working order, and one component that sometimes requires attention is the air conditioner compressor. Without a compressor that’s working as it should, you won’t have the cool air you need to live comfortably.

Located in the outdoor portion of an air conditioning unit, the AC compressor is one of its most integral parts, and one of the most expensive to fix. The purpose of a compressor is to circulate the refrigerant needed for heat exchange through the coils of the indoor and outdoor air conditioning unit. It also applies the energy to the refrigerant. Despite what you may think, the compressor generates heat rather than cold air.

As you can expect in subtropical Florida, the AC system and compressor deal with continuous stress – especially in summer – and they’ll wear down just like any other appliance. Dust, connector leaks, and drops in refrigerant charge could all put a halt to the cooling cycle. A faulty compressor motor can also be a problem.

Steps to fix an AC compressor

Diagnosing your air conditioning system can be a frustrating process and knowing what to look for can be a daunting challenge. With a little knowledge, you might be able to determine where the problem lies with your air conditioner’s compressor. Consider the following steps to fix the AC compressor:

Disclaimer: Cool Today takes no responsibility for the information provided and highly recommends calling a professional.

  1. Confirm that the AC system activates normally
  2. Will the air conditioner turn on? Start by performing the simplest checks. Does the air conditioning system activate normally?

  3. Check circuit breaker box switches
  4. Does the air conditioning system have power? Check your circuit breaker next. Locate your circuit breaker box, this is usually found on the outside of the home. Does the circuit for the air conditioner have its switch in the correct place? If the circuits are not labeled, do any switches appear to be going in a different direction than the others?

  5. Check the circuit breaker box for power to air conditioning
  6. If you aren’t getting power to your system, try flipping the breaker to the off position and back on again. Now try to turn on your air conditioning system.

  7. Confirm the AC system is blowing cold air
  8. When your air conditioner is turned on, does the system blow air out of the vents? Is the air cold or room temperature? If the air is cold, you may need to service something other than the AC compressor.

  9. Locate the fuse box of the AC unit
  10. Air conditioning units typically have a fuse box. Locate this mechanism along the power relay running to the unit. Does the fuse appear to be in good condition?

  11. Remove all the refrigerant before removing the compressor.
  12. Remove the receiver drier, orifice tube, and the expansion valve.
  13. Flush all foreign materials from the AC system.
  14. Install the new compressor, receiver drier, and orifice tube.

Air conditioning is important – not just for year-round comfort in subtropical Florida, but also in preventing life-threatening conditions like heat stroke. To ensure your home doesn’t veer into dangerous territory, having a properly functioning AC system is key. To prevent a situation where you’re uncomfortable at home, have your system and AC compressor inspected and regularly maintained. You don’t want to find yourself sweating and wondering what’s wrong.

Sure, diagnosing your air conditioning system can save time and money versus calling your local HVAC professional. However, if the AC compressor needs to be replaced, or if there’s another problem such as a bad capacitor or broken valve, don’t overlook the help of an AC expert. Make a list of the problems you’ve been experiencing and the steps you’ve taken to check for solutions.

Cool Today’s certified technicians are standing by to provide quick, reliable emergency AC repair services in Tampa, Sarasota, Orlando and Naples (view our full service area). Call us at 800-226-2636 or schedule your repair online. Be sure to let us know about the troubleshooting you’ve done, and you’ll be one step closer to fixing that AC compressor.

Contact or Schedule a Repair Online!

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