Compressor this and compressor that… What exactly is the big deal with an air conditioner’s compressor? HVAC teams all across the country label this component as the “most important part of the cooling process,” but that statement is rarely ever followed up with an explanation. We understand you frustration if you’ve been left in the dark on this, so we’re going to illuminate this important part for you today.
The compressor is a vital component that’s responsible for the “cooling” of air in your home. That’s right, we said cooling, because without a compressor, your air conditioner would just be a large fan! The compressor is responsible for compressing refrigerant from a liquid to a gas, causing the cooling process to take place and allowing the air in your home to be cooled by several degrees.
But that’s just the beginning! We need to go more into detail if we’re going to talk about compressors and air conditioning in Meridian, ID.
Compressors: How They Work
When you walk outside and see the large AC cabinet sitting on the slab right next to your house, you’re looking at the housing of the compressor. Inside of that cabinet sits a powerful compression system that actually pressurizes the refrigerant in your air conditioner. Since this component can actually be pretty loud when it’s running, it sits outdoors so you don’t have to listen to it when you’re sitting inside. Isn’t that convenient?
In order for refrigerant to soak up heat and deposit it outdoors, it needs to be pressurized to the point where it goes from liquid to gas and vice versa. This can only be done through the power of compression, and that’s what your compressor’s job is. It uses electrical energy to compress the space where the refrigerant is, causing it to evaporate and soak up heat. Then, it expands the space outside where the refrigerant turns back into a liquid and the heat disperses.
The Problem With Compressor Repairs
Sometimes and air conditioner can run into issues with the compressor. After all, this component works very hard on a regular basis to provide cooling to your home, so it would make sense that sometimes it needs to be fixed. However, compressor repairs have two major problems associated with them.
The first problem is that DIY compressor repair, or amateur compressor repair, can be a serious problem. This component is the most expensive and important part of the system, so it should only be worked on by a professional HVAC technician you trust.
The second problem is that a compressor repair can be expensive on its own, so it needs to be evaluated more than just a quick fix on another component of the system.
Replace the Compressor or the Whole System?
If your compressor has a problem with it, we urge you to get it evaluated by a pro. We’ll be able to give you a professional opinion on how expensive the repair might be, or if a compressor or AC replacement would be a better use of your money.
With Idaho Heating & Air, you can always count on us for affordable and reliable services. Contact us today. Your Comfort Is Our Priority!