Every HVAC owner needs to know about AC compressor low oil symptoms. Yes, even your HVAC system requires oil; not only your car. Once you understand the signs that the oil level is low, you can do something about it.
Not only knowing the symptoms can prevent your unit from being damaged, but you can also prevent other possible dangers that may harm you and your family.
Functions of Oil in HVAC System
Why does your HVAC system need oil? You should know that your HVAC system’s compressor has internal parts, and most are moving fast. Because of this condition, they need AC compressor oil, a certain type of oil, to lubricate those parts.
The idea is to ensure smooth operation and prevent leaks (because the oil will seal the connections within the compressor).
Two oil types are used in AC units: synthetic and mineral. Which one should you use? You can discuss this with the technician who handles your unit. No matter what kind of oil you use, it’s important to remember to maintain the level. It shouldn’t be too low, or you may see some of these signs.
Read also: How to Fix Short Cycling Air Conditioner?
How Do I Know if My AC Compressor Needs Oil?
There are certain AC compressor low oil symptoms, meaning you must provide the oil as soon as possible.
- Scoring and Wearing on Load Bearing Surface
Scoring and wearing signs on the bearings and rods shouldn’t be present. If they are, it means that your unit doesn’t have enough of lubricant. The crankshaft doesn’t have enough oil within the crankcase, so the running isn’t lubricated enough. As a result, you see more friction.
The best thing to do is to add some oil. You are in luck if the wearing signs aren’t too severe or deep. You won’t have to replace the parts. However, if you aren’t sure whether you should replace it, you can always hire a technician to perform the check.
- Refrigerant Leakage
It’s quite common when your unit develops a certain weak point. Refrigerant then escapes through that point, together with the oil. If you notice a seemingly small seep or leak, don’t just wait and stand there.
Have it checked. Even better: You should perform a regular check to ensure no leakage or such thing.
- It Smokes
If you see black smoke, then it’s a sure thing that your unit has experienced very low fluid. The unit may have used all the fluid up. The best thing to do is to turn your unit off. You can fill some oil up again, but it’s advisable that you contact a technician.
Smoke may also mean a malfunctioning compressor or bad heater core – not only that you are running out of oil. You should have it checked or you may have to deal with costly repairs.
- System Heat
If there is not enough oil, the internal parts will generate heat, which can be excessive. Those components will grind each other hard and experience more strain. As a result, overheating may happen, which can be dangerous for the unit.
Remember, though, that system heat may also indicate that the oil quality is poor or bad. So, if you decide to contact a professional technician, ask the person to check the oil level and quality.
Read also: Why is My AC Compressor Overheating and Shutting Off?
Can Low Engine Oil Affect Air Conditioning?
As you ca see from the description above, the answer is yes. If the oil level is low, the unit has no lubricant within the internal parts. Each part would be forced to grind against one another hard, and it can be dangerous. Never underestimate AC compressor low oil symptoms or face the costly consequences.
