Why An AC Condenser Fan Requires Immediate Attention

If you have a central air conditioning system that keeps your home cool in the summer, then it is wise to investigate the outdoor AC unit to make sure it is running properly and efficiently. There are a few key things to look for when completing your inspection, including the running of the compressor fan. If the fan no longer works, but you can tell that the AC unit is running due to the noises coming from the compressor pump, then you should contact an HVAC professional as soon as possible. Keep reading to learn why.

The Unit Can Quickly Overheat

The compressor fan has an essential function when it comes to your air conditioner. The fan helps to pull heat away from the unit. The release of heat keeps the internal components cool, and it also allows the coolant to cool off so it can absorb heat once it cycles through the unit. 

The fan works in conjunctions with the small fins that line the sides of the AC compressor. The fins help to direct cool outside air into the unit. The air passes over the coolant coils and moves up the middle of the unit. The warmed air is then drawn out of the compressor with the assistance of the fan. 

When the fan is working correctly, the coolant will be cool when passing through the compressor pump. This allows the pump to compress the coolant and move it to the condenser unit. However, if the coolant remains warm or hot, the compressor will need to force the warmed fluid through the cooling coils. This can place a great deal of stress on the rubber gaskets and seals in the device as well as the moving piston or rotary cylinder in the compressor. If the compressor is subjected to too much heat, the seals can break down and the internal parts can start to warp as well. 

Heat can also cause the oil inside the compressor pump to thicken. Lubrication, heat release, and debris removal capabilities of the fluid will then reduce substantially. The compressor can then overheat and stop working completely. Overheating issues often lead to the need for a complete compressor replacement. Compressor replacement is extremely expensive and may cost between $2,200 and $2,800. It is better to shut off the air conditioner completely until an HVAC professional can take a look instead of wasting several thousand dollars on the repair costs.

The AC Unit Will Not Work Well

Another reason that you should seek professional assistance as soon as possible is the fact that the unit will simply not cool your home properly. However, the unit will cycle on and off continuously. This can result in a great deal of wasted energy. 

The unit will not cool, because the coolant will pull heat from the air as it moves through the condenser coil. The heated coolant will then flow to the outdoor compressor unit where the heat is released with the help of air flow and the compressor fan. When the fan breaks, the coolant stays warm and is compressed and moved into the compressor unit once again. If the coolant is already warm, it cannot pull heat from the air. Warm air is then pumped into your house. 

As the unit continues to malfunction, you may notice the air becoming warmer and warmer as it comes out of your vents. This can obviously have the opposite effect of what you desire, since your home is likely to become warmer in the process.

AC condenser fans can be replaced fairly easily by an HVAC professional, such as those at Moore Heating & Air Conditioning Inc, so call one as soon as you notice the fan malfunctioning. The professional can also complete an inspection of wiring and other components to make sure the new fan works continuously without trouble.