Heat pump compressors play a key role in the heat transfer process, putting refrigerant into the right state for it to eventually condense and release heat. Here are three signs that indicate your Barrington, IL heat pump’s compressor is faulty.
1. Poor Heat Pump Performance
After your heat pump runs air over its evaporator coil, and refrigerant sitting in the coil absorbs the heat from the air and evaporates, that refrigerant should then move to the compressor for more pressurizing. Then, it can condense once it comes into contact with cooler air. No heat pump can perform effectively if its compressor is faulty.
Since a decline in performance is a very general symptom, many different things might cause it. Still, a compressor issue is always a possibility, so you’ll need to schedule professional HVAC maintenance to discover the truth.
2. Strange Noises
Compressors often emit strange noises after they’ve gone bad or just before they’re about to. Usually, these are rattling, buzzing or vibrating noises. The most likely cause of these specific noises is a loose part that’s causing a malfunction, but these sounds may also point to electrical issues and other problems.
3. Problems Starting
Heat pumps with malfunctioning compressors struggle to start. This may just be because debris has clogged the compressor or because it is old and has begun tripping your circuit breaker. The latter issue occurs because the compressor will demand more energy as it ages and its efficiency declines, which may possibly trip the breaker.
f
Don’t ignore the signs of a malfunctioning compressor. Failing to fix this component may lead to even worse malfunctions. To get your heat pump functioning properly again, call us at Martin Enterprises Heating and Air Conditioning to schedule HVAC services in Barrington, IL today.
Image provided by iStock
