Can a Bad AC Compressor Cause Overheating in Random Lake, WI?

Air conditioners have numerous components that work together to keep your home or business cool. But one malfunctioning part can cause the whole tower of comfort to come crumbling down. Can a bad AC compressor cause overheating? 

At Professional Services, our crew provides dependable AC services in Random Lake, WI. We know the importance of the compressor and explore the topic in depth below. 

How Can a Bad AC Compressor Cause Overheating?

The compressor condenses refrigerant, putting it under intense pressure before it moves to the condenser. The hot, pressurized refrigerant can then head to your outdoor unit, where it releases the heat and becomes liquid again. This process is part of what keeps your building cool, since the refrigerant traps indoor heat.

The compressor itself can get too warm to function properly. An AC compressor overheating will cause a complete system shutdown in an attempt to protect other components from damage. It can also cause other parts to overheat if the system continues to function. 

Why Might a Compressor Heat Up Too Much?

Now, how exactly can a bad AC compressor cause overheating? What makes a compressor go bad and fail to work functionally and safely?

• Bad air conditioning coils: The condenser coils help transfer refrigerant to the compressor. They may collect dust over time, or other issues will erode their function. 
• Low refrigerant levels: Refrigerant keeps your Random Lake home cool, as well as the air conditioner components. Poor refrigerant pressure and low levels might affect the equipment. 
• Airflow obstructions: Dust and other debris can insulate various HVAC components, preventing them from exhausting heat. 
• Power surges: If a lightning strike temporarily eviscerates your power supply, the returning electricity may surge through your electrical grid. This can send too much energy through your network, overheating different parts, including the compressor. 
• Poor protection for the outdoor unit: Can a bad AC compressor cause overheating? What else makes the compressor go bad? Outdoor units need shade and protection. Otherwise, they risk the engine overheating, causing other parts to get too warm in turn. 
• Improper equipment sizing: If your equipment is too big or too small for your home or business in Random Lake, Wisconsin, it will cycle erratically. This significantly increases the potential for overheating instances. 

All the listed issues can make your compressor underperform, sustain damage, and eventually overheat. The overheating component can affect the performance and function of connected machinery as a result. 

Do You Know the Signs of Poor Compressor Performance?

So, how can you tell when your compressor overheats or causes overheating in your HVAC system? Below are some surefire signs of a failing AC compressor:

• Repetitive thumping or clicking sounds: A single, soft click before the air conditioner begins operating is normal. But constant thumbs or clicks, especially if the cooling system isn’t operating, means compressor trouble. 
• Burning or rubbery smells: If you can smell burning rubber or metal, you’re smelling the scent of an overheating compressor clutch. 
• Oil drippings: If you check around your outdoor equipment, you might find oily spots. An overheating compressor may leak oil or lubricant. 
• Improper cooling functions: Can a bad AC compressor cause overheating and an uncomfortable indoor atmosphere? It sure can! The moist summer heat of Random Lake, Wisconsin, will creep into your home. 
• Incremental increases in electrical bills: Watch your utility bills for gradual increases that don’t align with your typical cooling habits. 
• Electrical issues: Overheating components mean that the HVAC system works too hard and draws more power than your circuit can supply. You might find yourself flipping the circuit breaker switch back into position more often.
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How Can You Protect Your Air Conditioner Compressor for Cooler Summers in Random Lake, Wisconsin?

Most compressors last the lifespan of the whole HVAC system. Therefore, compressor failure is a rare occurrence and may indicate the end of your cooling equipment’s service life. However, intensive cooling usage, power surges, or poor maintenance can shorten each component’s lifespan, forcing you to replace these parts prematurely. 



You can prevent overuse, overheating, and other issues by scheduling annual HVAC maintenance in Random Lake, Wisconsin. This service ensures your equipment stays clean, properly connected, and fully calibrated to your needs. 

Choose Professional Services for Air Conditioner Maintenance and Repairs in Random Lake, Wisconsin

Can a bad AC compressor cause overheating? It certainly can, and it may cause additional performance problems to your air conditioning load.



Check out our guide to troubleshooting residential AC problems so you know what to look for in your cooling system. Then, contact Professional Services to explore maintenance plans in Random Lake, Wisconsin.