What Causes Compressor Failure?

[Johnson]

Compressor failure is caused by liquid slugging, oil shortage, and insufficient lubrication. Below is an analysis of compressor damage: 1. Liquid Slugging: A phenomenon where liquid refrigerant and lubricating oil are drawn into the compressor cylinder along with gas, damaging the suction valve plates. Reducing or preventing liquid from entering the cylinder can avoid liquid slugging, making it entirely preventable. 2. Oil Shortage and Insufficient Lubrication: The compressor is a high-speed, complex machine. Ensuring adequate lubrication of moving parts such as the crankshaft, bearings, connecting rods, and pistons is a basic requirement for maintaining normal operation.

[VonEmersyn]

There are various reasons for compressor failure, and I believe insufficient lubrication is a common starting point. Oil leaks or deterioration in the lubrication system can increase component friction, leading to wear or seizing. Sometimes, metal debris or other foreign objects enter the system, causing internal blockages or scratches, which may also result from system corrosion or improper maintenance. On the electrical side, issues like circuit short circuits or relay failures can prevent the compressor from starting or cause frequent starts and stops. Additionally, refrigerant leaks or overcharging can lead to abnormally high pressure during compressor operation, causing damage over time. Aging is another factor, especially in vehicles that have been in use for many years, where natural wear or improper installation of the compressor occurs. Therefore, it's essential to regularly check lubrication and clean the system to avoid more significant issues. If the air conditioning stops cooling, it's best to have a professional diagnose the problem to prevent minor issues from turning into major troubles.

[Mario]

In my years of driving, I've seen quite a few compressor issues, many of which were due to owners neglecting regular maintenance. Simply put, if the lubrication system gets dirty or runs low on oil, the compressor internals will overheat and wear out. Dust or debris entering the AC lines can also clog components and cause malfunctions. Aging electrical wiring or poor connections are more prone to cause problems during summer heat. Using mismatched refrigerants or improper charging can make the compressor work under excessive load. Additionally, poor parking conditions, such as frequently parking in dusty areas, can accelerate contamination and damage. I believe developing a habit of checking the AC filter and lines every six months can effectively extend the compressor's lifespan. If you notice insufficient cooling or increased noise, don't delay—get it repaired as soon as possible.

[MacEliza]

When the compressor failed, I reflected that it might have been caused by my driving habits. For example, frequently turning the air conditioning on and off or operating it continuously under high temperatures can cause the compressor to overheat, leading to seal damage or lubrication failure. Electrical faults such as blown fuses or voltage instability are also common. Moisture or foreign objects entering the system can corrode internal components, causing gas leaks. Poor-quality refrigerant or uneven filling can also place excessive strain on the compressor. In fact, simply being mindful of not fully turning on the air conditioning suddenly in high temperatures and regularly cleaning the external condenser can help reduce issues. If the air conditioning's output temperature rises or unusual noises occur, it's best to stop and inspect it.