How to Decide whether to Repair or Replace a Compressor

November 15, 2014

Commercial HVAC Unit, Graves Heating and Air, Rosa Media Productions

Commercial HVAC Unit Main Switch

Generally compressors are not the point of failure in a system. Many times the failure point is the electrical power and controls supporting the compressor. A compressor may not run, but doesn’t mean it is bad. It could also be burnt wires or a capacitor. These repairs are fairly inexpensive from the part point of view. The labor will be the expensive part of those repairs.

A compressor can be bad in 3 ways:

  1. The motor could be grounded or have open windings. It pops the circuit breaker instantly. The tech will need to check this with an ohmmeter.
  2. It could also be internal overload. This is a device that shuts down the compressor when it is running at high a temperature. This could indicate a low level of Freon or a dirty condenser. Not enough oil in the system can cause more friction, this could also result in an overheated compressor.
  3. A compressor could be a non-pumper – high suction, low discharge.

If a technician is telling you that your compressor is bad, you want to know exactly why. They need to do a pressure test. For instance:

If it is running 250/125 psi, that shows that something is mechanically broken inside the compressor.

If it is 300/20 psi, any tech should know that that is an expansion valve not a compressor.

Compressors get changed out all the time when the problem is not the compressor. It is some other aspect of the unit. Technicians really need to write down pressures if they are saying it’s a bad compressor, either not pumping or worn out.

If the compressor is still running, then you need a solid and specific diagnosis of the problem. If it is not running, then it has to be an open winding, its grounded, has a locked rotor, or it’s simply not bad. If it is not one of the above, it is probably a burnt wire or a capacitor, again, a much cheaper repair. A compressor not running has distinct causes, and the technician should be able to specify the problem in writing.

If your AC needs repair or service, please call us at 562-944-2118 to set up an appointment.

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Let the Buyer Beware

October 15, 2014

Repair techs should clarify exactly what is wrong with your system before you move forward with repairs.

Repair techs should clarify exactly what is wrong with your system before you move forward with repairs.

Here are some consumer advocacy tips to help you keep from “being had”:

  1. How many flyers did you get last year for a $70 AC “routine” maintenance? That kind of deep discount offering is likely to be a fishing expedition for big ticket repairs. The fact is that it takes more than $70 to keep a typical AC repair truck and technician on the road for the amount of time it takes to do one-off “routine” maintenance calls. This is often the old bait and switch technique, so be careful.
  2. Expect your repair technician to specify the diagnosis of the problem before you spend any money for a repair. You can easily end up with a repair that is more than is necessary for the situation. Our technicians go out of their way to explain why a part is bad and to explain the repair needed.
  3. Don’t be afraid to slow down and get a second opinion.

If your AC needs repair or service, please call us at 562-944-2118 to set up an appointment.

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Tip # 2 Check the Power

February 15, 2014 1 Comment

Circuit Breakers, Graves Heating and Air, Rosa Media Productions

Circuit Breakers

I know you will be rolling your eyes on this one. But you would be surprised at how many times we get called for a breakdown when the only problem is a tripped breaker. This simply means that the circuit no longer has power and needs to be reset by turning off the breaker and turning it back on. It is usually a double breaker marked AC.

Now, of course, if you have repeated experiences with the breaker tripping, you should probably have the system looked at by a professional.

If you suspect that your unit requires a repair, don’t take a chance, give us a call at (562) 944-2118.

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Tip #1 : 3 Benefits of Changing Your AC Filter Regularly

January 15, 2014

Heating and Air Conditioning Filter, Graves Heating and Air, Rosa Media Productions

Heating and Air Conditioning Filter

Change your filter every 2 to 3 months. A clean filter allows for easy airflow through your system. Many bigger problems can be avoided if your filter is kept clean.

Keep in mind that the filter should cover the entire opening and should be held in place by a clip or other fastener.

We’re always happy to show a homeowner how to change their own filter during a service call.

We could write chapters about why airflow is important to your unit, but if you keep your filter clean you may never need to know the scientific principles of your AC unit.

If your AC needs repair or service, please call us at 562-944-2118 to set up an appointment.

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