What Is an AC Compressor and How Is It Cleaned?

When your cooling system starts to malfunction, the first thing experts look for is compressor issues. AC compressor cleaning and regular maintenance serve as your best line of defense against system damage, but what does it entail exactly? Our specialists at Gore Heating & Air can explain the important process of cleaning your air conditioning compressor for optimum cooling performance.

The Vital Role of Your Air Conditioning Compressor

Technicians often refer to the compressor as the heart of your air conditioner. It’s responsible for pumping refrigerant through your unit’s coils, which kickstarts the cooling process. Without a working compressor, your system wouldn’t be able to trap heat from your home and replace it with cool, comfortable air.

How Professionals Clean an HVAC Compressor

Anyone can perform DIY AC compressor cleaning by removing debris around the outdoor unit and hosing the equipment down. This might remove some of the grime from fan blades and condenser coils, but it won’t do much to improve long-term system efficiency. Experts recommend scheduling a professional tune-up service, which involves the following tasks.

Clean Dirty Coils

Over time, dirt builds up on outdoor condenser coils. The layer of grime insulates the coil and makes it difficult for the refrigerant inside to release heat from indoors. By taking a soft brush and scrubbing the coil, technicians improve the system’s cooling process.

This one simple step provides many advantages, such as:

• Shorter cooling cycles
• Lower energy costs
• Longer unit lifespan

Your unit won’t have to work as hard to cool your home when you take the time to maintain it properly.

Check for Leaks

Experts do more than clean internal components during an air conditioning tune-up service. They also monitor refrigerant flow and look for leaks in the refrigerant lines. If your unit begins leaking refrigerant, it loses some of its cooling capabilities and forces your compressor to work harder.

Along with AC compressor cleaning, technicians conduct tests to determine the refrigerant level. They’ll add the right amount of liquid refrigerant if your system contains a leak.

Lubricate Moving Parts

The compressor can’t do its job if some essential moving parts start to grind or move slowly. Experts add a small amount of oil to these mechanisms, so they move without issue. If you hear grinding noises coming from your outdoor unit, some of the parts might need more lubricant.

Clear Suction Lines

Refrigerant must flow through outdoor suction lines to continue the cooling process. If these lines become blocked or damaged, it can cause the compressor to overheat and break down. Experts will inspect the suction lines for problems to ensure the compressor works properly.

Preserve Your Air Conditioner With HVAC Maintenance Services

Are you unable to maintain your air conditioner and want peace of mind that everything works properly? Reach out to Gore Heating & Air. We offer HVAC maintenance plans that include everything from coil and AC compressor cleaning to restoring refrigerant levels and more.

Let our team make your cooling system more efficient and longer lasting. Call (910) 485-5877 to request immediate service.