Armstrong AC compressor not working efficiently: Here's How to Fix

 





Armstrong Air has established a good reputation in the manufacturing of HVAC

equipment which includes air conditioners and the AC compressor in particular.

The compressor is the most vital component of an air conditioning system which

guarantees that your home or office is cool during the summer season.

Knowledge on how it operates and the measures to be taken if it is to last longer and

operate optimally can be of great importance.

The AC compressor is an important component and has a specific function to perform

in the cooling system of a vehicle.

Understanding the Role of the AC Compressor

The AC compressor is an important component in the refrigeration cycle. It circulates

the refrigerant gas and raises its pressure and its temperature before it is sent to the

condenser coils. It also enables the refrigerant to expel the heat absorbed from the

indoor air and continue the cycle efficiently. If a compressor is not working properly,

an AC system cannot cool effectively, which causes discomfort and can harm other

parts of the HVAC system.

Common Causes of Inefficient Compressor Performance

There are several causes of inefficiency in an Armstrong AC compressor and they include:

  • Dirty or clogged coils: This is because, when the condenser or evaporator coils get dusty or blocked, heat transfer is affected and the compressor is compelled to work harder.

  • Refrigerant problems: This is because low or high refrigerant levels will put pressure on the compressor and thus reduce efficiency.

  • Mechanical issues: Damaged wiring of the compressor or the capacitor might also be the cause of this problem.

  • Wear and tear: As the components of the equipment get older, it is natural that the bearings and valves, for instance, may wear out and become less effective.

  • Sizing issues: A small or a large compressor may not be able to control the temperature within the room as required, thus using a lot of energy.

Diagnosing Efficiency Issues in Armstrong AC Compressors

It is important to identify the cause of reduced performance of your Armstrong AC compressor. Some common diagnostic steps include:

  • Examining the thermostat : Make sure the thermostat is set to the required temperature for cooling.

  • Checking of the air filter : This is because a dirty air filter hinders the flow of air and hence the compressor is forced to work harder.

  • Checking for vibrations : Vibration can also be detected by touching different parts of the exterior to listen for any signs of vibration coming from a specific area

  • Checking the energy consumption : If there is a sharp increase in energy bills, it may be an indication that the compressor is not working optimally.

  • Non-Invasive HVAC diagnostic equipment : These are instruments that are used by the technicians in testing refrigerant pressure, electrical connections as well as flow rates.
Signs Your Armstrong AC Compressor is Not Working Efficiently

Symptoms of an inefficient Armstrong AC compressor include the following:
There are some signs that can indicate that the AC compressor is failing and they include:

  • Lack of cooling: If your AC is on but not cooling your house, then the compressor may have lost its capacity to apply pressure on the refrigerant.

  • Short cycling means that the air conditioner turns on and off very often and this could be due to several factors such as overheating, electrical problems or a problem with the refrigerant.

  • All owners know that different sounds can reveal a lot about their machine’s health; therefore, if one hears unusual sounds, such as rattling, grinding, or hissing, there is probably an internal problem.

  • High energy consumption: High energy bills without a proportional increase in cooling requirements may be due to a faulty compressor.

  • Refrigerant leaks: If the compressor unit has oil stains or there is a puddle on the ground, then it means that the refrigerant is leaking and this will affect the performance of the compressor.
Troubleshooting Steps for AC Compressor Issues

      In case of a faulty Armstrong Air compressor below are some measures that can be followed:

      • Check the circuit breaker: Sometimes, the circuit breaker may be tripped and this will cause the compressor to stop working. Resetting it may restore function.

      • Check the refrigerant charge: If the refrigerant is low or high, it should be corrected by a professional HVAC technician.

      • Check electrical connections: All the wires should be connected properly and should not be corroded.

      • Clean the coils and filters: This will help in enhancing the heat exchange process and thus less stress on the compressor.

      • Check the capacitor and relay switch: Sometimes the electrical parts may be damaged and require replacement for proper functioning.
      Maintenance Tips for Improving Compressor Efficiency

      The following are some of the ways through which Armstrong AC compressor can be maintained to enhance its efficiency and durability

      • Schedule professional tune-ups: An annual check-up by an expert will help check all parts of the system.

      • Maintain cleanliness of the outdoor unit: It is advisable to ensure that the compressor unit is free from dust, grass, and other types of chaff.

      • Change air filters often: Clogged filters reduce air flow, causing the compressor to labor.

      • Check the refrigerant level: The refrigerant should be set to the right level to ensure efficiency in the cooling process.

      • Check and tighten the electrical connections: These are important since loose wires can lead to a fluctuation of voltage and low efficiency.
      When to Replace Your Armstrong AC Compressor

      Even with proper care, the AC compressor is not expected to last indefinitely. It is important to be able to determine when your Armstrong AC compressor needs to be replaced to avoid spending on costly repairs and energy consumption. Consider replacement if:

      • The compressor is more than 10-15 years old and has a tendency to develop faults.

      • The cost of repair is more than 50% of the cost of a new unit.

      • The energy bills are high and are continuously going down, which is a sign of low energy efficiency.

      • Refrigerant leaks are constant, and the process of refilling is rather frequent.

      • The compressor motor has seized up and therefore it is not feasible to fix it.



      The Armstrong Air compressor is an important part that plays a key role in cooling mechanisms. Knowing about its purpose, problems, and proper care will enable homeowners and business people to manage their systems effectively. It is also important to note that routine checkups, early detection of faults, and professional maintenance can enhance the durability of the AC compressor as well as lower the power consumption. However, if efficiency continues to deteriorate even after the above maintenance practices have been implemented, then the only long-term solution is to replace the compressor. PartsHnC provides premium HVAC replacement parts which include thermostats and blower motors alongside control boards, circuit boards, compressors, and more. Our wide component selection allows you to maintain smooth HVAC operation while taking advantage of our exclusive same-day shipping options and budget-friendly prices.



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