Summertime is almost here, and that means air conditioner season is in full swing. Keeping your air conditioner compressor well-maintained is essential for optimal performance and longevity. Some may argue it’s the only way to prevent needing to replace your entire air conditioner. In this blog post, we will discuss the best ways to clean and maintain your air conditioner compressor.
Never operate the compressor in an enclosed space.
Operating an air compressor in an enclosed space can be deadly, as the compressed air can quickly fill the space and create an oxygen-deprived environment. This can cause suffocation, asphyxiation, or even an explosion. To avoid these dangers, always make sure the compressor is operated in a well-ventilated space, and never allow it to run in an enclosed area.
Operating your compressor in an enclosed space can also cause the unit to overheat, which can lead to all kinds of problems. A noisy AC unit is one of the clearest warning signs that your compressor is struggling or nearing malfunction. Never operate the compressor in an enclosed space if you want to avoid damaging your home, your unit, and yourself.
Prevent your compressor from failing and freezing.
No matter the type of air conditioner, in cold weather, your compressor can also face damage from the cold and freeze. This will lead to electrical issues and damage to the unit that could end up needing a replacement. Caring for your compressor means protecting it from the cold.
In cold weather climates, it is important to keep the compressor in a warm environment to help prevent freezing. If the compressor does freeze, it can cause extensive damage and may require replacement. To help prevent the compressor from freezing, it is important to keep the area around it warm. You can do this by using a space heater or by keeping the building heated.
If your compressor does freeze, here are ways to thaw it out:
1. Turn off the power to the compressor.
2. Remove the ice from the compressor.
3. Thaw the compressor using a space heater or by keeping the area around it warm.
4. Turn on the power to the compressor.
5. Check the compressor for damage.
No one wants to replace the entire air conditioner altogether, especially when winter ends and the summer comes back in full swing. If you’re unsure or need a second opinion, contact a technician who can take a closer look at your compressor and decide your next steps.
You want to keep your compressor clean and lubricated.
One of the most important things is to keep the compressor lubricated. This can be done by adding compressor oil to the reservoir. It is important to use the correct type of oil, so be sure to check the ac manufacturer’s manual.
Another important part of compressor maintenance is to keep the air filters and filter dryers clean. This can be done by blowing them out with compressed air. A clogged air compressor can lead to issues like poor airflow, less cooling, and hot air when the air conditioner should be producing cold air. Do make sure to clean up the dust removed from the air compressor; the dust can lead to respiratory issues.
Always keep the compressor in a dry place.
Water damage can be a huge pain to clean up, especially if it’s on your air compressor. Water damage can lead to malfunction, which will inevitably lead to needing a replacement. If the compressor gets wet, make sure to dry it off before using it again.
If you need to clean the compressor itself, you can use a damp towel to wipe down what compressed air couldn’t remove. Do not use any harsh chemicals or solvents to clean or dry your compressor if you want it to last for a long time.
Homeowners have a lot to worry about when it comes to their homes, but your compressor doesn’t have to be one of them. If you ever have any questions about your compressor, you should get in contact with a technician who specializes in HVAC to soothe your worries and help you decide your best course of action.
