What can be causing your air conditioner’s compressor to overheat? There are a plethora of reasons why this must be happening. To figure this out, we have brought up a list of issues that may be leading to this result.
Time to find out what the issue is.
Why Is My AC Compressor Overheating And Shutting Off?
There are many reasons why your compressor is overheating and shutting off:
1. The Condenser Coils Are Filled With Filth
The air conditioner’s coils have refrigerants in them. When the coils get clogged up in the dirt, these refrigerants are unable to expel heat, as the filth clogged up acts as an insulator. This leads to your air conditioner heating up and releasing warm air into the room, and this can cause the AC to overwork and shut down.
2. Dust Accumulated In The Filter
This is a common occurrence and is prone to happen. The filter cleans the air as it enters the room. When dust accumulates, your AC takes more load and energy to work, ultimately leading to shutting down. Sometimes, it can expel warm air, too, in this situation.
3. Issues In The Electrical Contacts
Faulty wiring, loose connections, or tripped circuit breakers can disrupt the proper functioning of your AC system. Electrical problems can result in excessive heat generation and trigger the system’s safety mechanisms, causing it to shut down.
4. Issues With The Condenser Fan
The condenser fan is responsible for dissipating heat from the outdoor unit. If the fan malfunctions or stops working, heat cannot be effectively released, causing your AC to overheat and shut down as a safety measure.
5. Not Enough Refrigerants
Sometimes, fewer refrigerants in the AC can cause it to overheat and stop. If you notice that your house isn’t cooling properly and the outside portion has ice forming, then it probably means there are fewer refrigerants.
How To Fix This Issue?
Here is how you can resolve this problem:
- Remove and inspect the filters if they are dirty, and clean or replace them as needed. Regularly doing so to the air filters is essential for proper functioning.
- Check if the condenser fan, located in the outdoor unit, is running. If the fan is not functioning or is running slowly, it can cause the AC system to overheat. Ensure that the fan blades are clean and not obstructed. If the fan motor is faulty, it may need to be repaired or replaced by a professional.
- If you suspect a refrigerant leak, contact a licensed HVAC technician is the best option who can fix the leakage with the proper equipment.
- Ensure the thermostat is set to the appropriate temperature and mode (cooling). Additionally, check if the thermostat is located away from any heat sources that may affect its accuracy.
- Scheduling annual professional maintenance, including cleaning, inspection, and necessary repairs, can help keep the AC healthy and functional.
Conclusion
The underlying reasons for your air conditioner to overheat and shut down can sometimes go unnoticed. So, it becomes necessary to take effective measures to fix it. If your AC repeatedly shuts down due to overheating, contacting a qualified HVAC technician is recommended to address the problem.
