How to Pick the Right Home AC Compressor

Heating, ventilating, and air conditioning systems are used in residential and commercial structures to cool, vent, and heat livable and workable areas. In air conditioning units are several components including the condenser, evaporator, and compressor. The compressor compresses or squeezes the cooling fluid to make it more powerful and sends it to the condenser. If the compressor fails, the unit will not cool effectively and you must replace the compressor.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• Air conditioning unit manual

Instructions

1. Measure the livable square footage of your home. Measure each room with an air conditioning vent and combine the total for the amount of cooled square footage. This is important in selecting the right size compressor to efficiently maximize your cooling unit.

2. Look in your owner's manual to determine the size of your air conditioning unit. Air conditioning units are measured in "tons" and produce cool air measured in British thermal units.

3. Phone several repair companies and ask each which compressor will best fit your needs. Give the company your livable square footage and size of your A/C unit. Or schedule time to have a certified residential HVAC-R technician inspect your unit. Ask for a list of different compressors according to cost, reliability, and warranty.

References

• "Fundamentals of HVAC Systems"; Robert McDowall; 2006
• "Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Repair"; Roger A. Fischer, Ken Chernoff; 1988