A compressor is among the major components that allow your AC to work effectively. So, if your AC fails, the compressor might be faulty and needs repair. Note that a compressor is a delicate AC component that only a professional should handle. 

Check out a few reasons why your AC compressor won't turn on. 

Dirty Condenser Coils

Condenser coils collect heated air from your indoor environment and disperse it outside. AC condenser coils (especially in the outdoor unit) can accumulate dirt, dust, or mineral deposits over time. Consequently, the condenser coils will not expel heat from your system properly.

Debris build-up on the condenser coils also causes issues like:

• Ice build-up on the coils
• High energy consumption by your AC
• AC deterioration that may result in malfunction or damage to your unit

With dirty condenser coils, your AC strains to cool your home and will start to overheat. Eventually, your compressor will fail.

To clean your condenser unit, first shut off power to your AC. Then, remove all debris (sticks, leaves) from the outdoor unit. Also, remove your AC top and use a microfiber cloth or soft brush to remove the dirt and dust you see on the coil's fins. 

If dirty coils cause condenser damage, you should enlist an HVAC technician to clean your AC safely. Don't take your chances if you're unsure how to clean your unit without inflicting further damage.

Low or High Refrigerant Levels

The refrigerant fluid inside your AC coils cools the air from the compressor. If your system has too much refrigerant, a refrigerant overcharge ensues. Excess refrigerant causes your compressor to go on an overdrive, which might damage the compressor. You will also notice squealing sounds and high energy bills as a result. 

On the other hand, air conditioner leaks cause low refrigerant levels. With low AC fluid, your compressor struggles to cool your indoor space and overheats. The result is damage to your compressor motor. 

Remember that AC refrigerant can be dangerous. So, enlist a residential AC technician to check your refrigerant levels to avoid unnecessary risks. 

Tripped Circuit Breaker

A circuit breaker is essentially a safety device that cuts excess current flow in a circuit. Firstly, if your compressor fails to kick on, check if your AC receives power. A circuit can trip if you connect high voltage appliances to the circuit. Your AC can also overheat, draw excess power, and trip your breaker. 

To fix the problem, reset the circuit breaker and then switch on your AC. If the circuit breaker continues to trip even after you do this, you may have a system issue to worry about. If so, don't hesitate to contact residential AC services to address the issue. Ensure you also draft a regular maintenance schedule to keep your Ac unit in top condition for longer.