What Is an AC Compressor?

If you’re wondering how your AC works, you may be asking, what is an AC compressor? How does it help my AC function? Your compressor is one of the most important parts of your system because, without it, your air conditioner would function much like a bulky box fan. 

If you want to learn more about an AC compressor and how it works, read this article from Brody Pennell Heating & Air Conditioning.

What Is an AC Compressor?

An AC compressor is a series of tubes that pumps the refrigerant in your system. For your heat pump to work, the compressor uses special oil and pressure to compress refrigerant down so that heat exchange moves smoothly. Without compressor oil, your air conditioner would simply blow hot air all the time. 

How Do AC Compressors Work?

Your air conditioner compressor starts via electrical connections from the capacitor. Once on, the compressor uses pressure levels to compress your refrigerant tightly, increasing the pressure so much that it turns into a hot gas. By drawing ambient air inside with a fan, the refrigerant gas cools and the compressor begins to pump it toward the evaporation on your air conditioner.

During this process, your discharge lines take all the condensation involved and drain it so that excess liquid doesn’t spill over in your air conditioner. The compressor pumps liquid through the restrictor, which helps lower the pressure of the refrigerant. This causes it to evaporate and cool the air as it flows through the unit’s fan.

How Do I Know If Something Is Wrong With My AC Compressor?

If you turn on your air conditioner and only warm air blows out of the machine, your compressor may no longer be working. It could be any number of problems:

• The suction lines may be unable to transfer refrigerant
• The unit may be running low on refrigerant
• The compressor may be frozen and unable to function

If you’re having an issue with your compressor, the best thing to do is to call a professional who can help repair your air conditioner. 

While troubleshooting and understanding the nature of the problem may help, ultimately, your HVAC technician will be able to find the root cause of the issue. Don’t try DIY work on your air conditioner, as doing so can void the warranty and potentially cause serious injury.

Broken AC Compressor? Call Brody Pennell Heating & Air Conditioning

Now that you know what an AC compressor is, call Brody Pennell Heating & Air Conditioning for answers to all of your air conditioner-related questions. We understand that your air conditioner is crucial for the comfort of your home, especially during the summer season. That’s why when we serve you, we ensure that our stay is brief and productive.

If you need a service to maintain and clean your air conditioner every three months, Brody Pennell Heating & Air Conditioning is the place to consider. To call us for an appointment, reach out to us at 310-810-2721.