A new Air conditioner should work very well. However, sometimes, your new AC poses a serious issue such as the compressor not turning ON. Obviously, you are worried as you have spent a handsome amount on the brand new product.
But, your worries will go away after knowing that this problem is fixable. Exactly, the same thing happened to me when I installed an AC last summer.
I performed some quick and basic checks and the appliance started working fine. The problem can be caused by a little installation error or controlling mistake. So, let us know how to solve it.
What is Compressor in AC?
A compressor is the most important part of an air conditioner. In fact, it is the engine of an AC. It is generally located in the outdoor unit. This component compresses the cool and low-pressure gas to make it hot.
The gas then goes to the condenser to cool down. So, the AC starts working when the compressor performs its function properly.
How to Know if Compressor is not Working?
Some signs can tell you whether the compressor is running or not. The most obvious sign is the slight noise. When it is working, it makes a little bit of noise. You can hear by getting closer to the unit.
However, even if there is no sound, the unit may be still working. Another indicator is warm air from your AC even after 15-20 minutes of turning it ON. Because it cools the room within 30 minutes.
Fixing the AC Compressor
As a rule of thumb, your new AC should work 100%. If it does not, you must call the company. But, before that, check a few basic things. Maybe there is some fault in the installation or power. Here are some primary and quick checks.
1. Ensure Required Power
In the first place, you need to check the power. You should know that an AC needs high voltage to turn ON.
So, you have to install a separate outlet and high-capacity cable from the main supply. Otherwise, the unit may receive power but the compressor will not turn ON.
2. Check the Power Supply
Test the electric outlet that is supplying power to your appliance. Plug another appliance into the outlet to make sure it is working.
Next, test the outlet and voltage to the AC using a Multimeter. Also, check the breakers at the main panel. Reset the tripped breaker. Moreover, check the fuse and replace it if blown.
3. Power Cycle Your AC
An AC can get overheated if it runs for a long time. So, you should dissipate heat by power cycling the unit.
- Turn OFF your AC and unplug it from the power supply.
- If your room is hot, open the doors and windows for ventilation.
- Wait for 30 minutes to switch ON the unit again.
- Plug the power cord firmly into the outlet and turn ON the power.
4. Reset AC Compressor
Most air conditioners have a visible reset button. By resetting, you can remove the temporary problems. Find the reset button on the compressor or on the main unit at back or front.
It is red in color and clearly visible. You have to press the reset button for a few seconds. Restart your AC and check again.
5. Reduce Overheating
Air conditioners are equipped with an automatic safety mechanism. If the unit overheats, the compressor will turn OFF as a safety measure. It happens when your appliance works non-stop for an extended period.
This is made possible by the pressure switches. An AC has one high and one low-pressure switch. They turn OFF the compressor if any threat is detected. Hence, your unit is protected from intense damage.
6. Examine Wiring
As I have mentioned earlier, an air conditioner uses higher voltage. So, your wiring and electrical fitting should be able to manage the heavy loads. You have to make sure that your wiring is stable and cables are of high quality.
Otherwise, the entire circuit of your house can be short. Please call a professional electrician to examine your electrical wiring.
7. Test the Capacitor
A capacitor is an important component of the compressor. It can get faulty or fail. Hence, you need to check the capacitor.
Replace it with the new one if necessary. Technically, it should be done by the company because your AC is new.
8. Bad Relays or Valves
Relay is another important component attached to the compressor. If it fails, the unit will not work. Likewise, the valve may be broken that controls the flow of refrigerant liquid.
Therefore, the compressor will receive excess or no refrigerant. Resultantly, it will not receive cool air and will not turn ON. Ideally, you should these things right after installation.
9. Defective Compressor
The last possibility is that the compressor of your AC is defective or dead. It can be a manufacturing fault. Although the company sells every item in good condition yet it can happen by chance.
All electronics come with a decent warranty period. Hence, you should call the company at once and ask them to replace the unit.
FAQs About AC Compressor
If you want to understand more, read the following commonly asked questions.
How long do AC compressors last?
An AC compressor lasts almost 10-15 years. Typically, the manufacturer offers a 10-12 years warranty. Within this period, you can claim if the unit stops working. You will get a replacement free of cost. However, the unit can last longer if you maintain it properly.
Why does an AC compressor gets overloaded?
Lack of maintenance and overheating is the most common cause of overloading. Outdoor coils trap dirt very easily. If you do not clean them, the dirt built-up blocks the ventilation. Hence, the unit gets overloaded and stops working.
Is an AC compressor repairable?
In less serious conditions, the compressor can be repaired by a technician. But, if breaks down or fail completely, do not for a repair. Because you will waste your money as it can fail again. Further, a repaired compressor is not a harmless option. Instead, go for replacement or contact the company if it is under warranty.
Also read: How to Fix Split AC Compressor Stopped Working
Concluding Thoughts
Follow this guide correctly if your new AC compressor is not turning ON. I have told you a number of basic checks that you must perform. However, if nothing works, contact the company and do not open the unit.
