How do you protect a compressor?

Many things can affect an AC compressor's efficiency and performance during the summer. Your cooling system can be damaged by flying rocks, hail or damaging winds during storms, or even overgrown plants. Some problems are minor and can be fixed quickly for an affordable cost.

The AC compressor in your outdoor unit is crucial to the overall performance of your system. The AC compressor can fail or overheat, resulting in costly HVAC repairs or replacements. Commercial air conditioning company mesa az wants to help you understand how to maintain your AC compressor, so it doesn't suffer expensive damage.

Outdoor HVAC Equipment Can Help or Hinder Your Comfort

Your HVAC system's exterior unit is responsible for pulling warm air and cooling it down using refrigerant or evaporator coils. The AC compressor is responsible for compressing the refrigerant in the unit and delivering it throughout. While outdoor units are built to withstand Mother Nature's unpredictable weather, that doesn't make them invincible. You can protect your AC compressor and other components of your exterior system with:

Keep It Clean

Grass clippings can be sprayed across your yard when you mow. Most often, these clippings end up inside your outdoor AC unit. Your outdoor AC unit can be clogged by grass clippings, dirt, dust, and other debris. The unit's airflow is restricted by debris. Dirty coils can cause AC compressors to work harder for heat exchange. This puts the compressor under extreme stress.

To cool down between cycles, the AC compressor requires proper ventilation. If the outdoor unit cannot cool down, it will overheat and turn off. The unit will fail if it is overheated frequently. To replace the part:

1. Call Birmingham air conditioner repair service.
2. Clear away all debris to prevent overheating.
3. If the outdoor unit is not cooling down, call KS Services.

To maintain good airflow through your cooling system, change your filter often. This will ensure that all critical components of your system, including the compressor, are in good condition.

Landscaping wisely

Outdoor units need to be able to breathe. This means that there should always be two feet around them. In summer, shrubs, trees, and bushes grow fast, especially when it rains. They can quickly grow to the extent that they block airflow and cause damage to your AC compressor. Removing vegetation from outdoor equipment should be done at least 2 feet. Shade protects your AC compressor from the elements between cooling cycles.

If the exterior unit in your home was installed before you moved in, ensure there are at least two feet between it and your house. KS Services should be contacted immediately if the system seems to be too close to your house. NATE-certified technicians can suggest increasing airflow and stopping the system from heating up.

Protective Shades

Shade or indirect sunlight is the best place to install an outdoor unit. Your AC compressor will cool down if it is in the shade. Consider planting some shade plants if you don't have tall trees or shrubs nearby your AC compressor.

Deciduous is the best kind of foliage. It loses its leaves every winter and then blooms each spring. Large leaves provide shade during the hottest hours of the day. When the weather changes, the leaves drop, allowing direct sunlight to shine on the exterior unit. Landscape design can improve the performance of your AC compressor and help keep it healthier longer.

Examining the refrigerant for leakage

The refrigerant line can crack over time which can lead to leakage. Leakage can lower the refrigerant level, making the compressor work harder and eventually causing damage. This can save you money on expensive repairs by addressing the problem as soon as possible.

Summer storms can cause damage to your AC compressor.

Turn off the AC

Turn off the AC system before a hurricane or summer storm hits. If there is a power cut, this will prevent damage to the AC compressor. Circuits can blow if the power is restored. Keep the AC on until the storm passes.

Cover the exterior unit

Covering the outside unit with a tarp in severe weather will prevent water and other debris from entering the compressor.

Make sure the unit is clean.

Check the unit for any damage caused by fallen tree branches, leaves, or other debris after the storm.

How to Maintain Your AC

A highly qualified professional HVAC technician can do the regular maintenance of your AC system. This will ensure that your compressor lasts for many years. Routine maintenance includes cleaning the coils, checking the refrigerant levels, and:

• Check oil levels. Your AC compressor's function is dependent on oil lubrication. An AC technician will check the oil level and change it.
• Suction lines. The suction line transports the refrigerant from the condenser to the evaporator. HVAC technicians can inspect the line to make sure it is clear. If the AC isn't cooling correctly, it could be blocked. This can lead to the compressor overheating and causing it to fail.
• Electrical problems. Routine maintenance will inspect the compressor to determine if any electrical problems could cause damage.

Are you concerned about your AC compressor? Contact Everest Air LLC

You will see better performance and greater energy efficiency from your AC compressor if you take steps to protect it. Although the compressor is durable, it should be serviced twice yearly for routine maintenance. Contact Everest Air LLC to arrange service for your AC compressor before heat waves.