Whether your current air compressor has been damaged or is just getting old, it may be time to replace it. Like most of the components in your AC system, there are a handful of options you can select from, which include everything from a rotary compressor to a reciprocating one. Let’s look at how to choose the best compressor for your system.

What Is an Air Conditioner Compressor?

Your air conditioner runs on a simple but effective process that allows heat to be sent away from your home while cool air is brought in. When refrigerant is moved out of the evaporator coil, it becomes a low-pressure gas. However, it needs to be at a higher pressure to release the heat and keep your home cool.

The compressor in your system ensures the refrigerant molecules are packed together, increasing the pressure and temperature of the solution. This pump transfers the heat through the air conditioner and into the condenser.

Types of Air Conditioner Compressors

There are four types of compressors you can select for your cooling system. Each of these has unique characteristics.

Rotary Compressor

Rotary models can compress refrigerant without making a lot of noise. If you want your system to be equipped with a quiet compressor, you may prefer this option. Rotary air compressors are small and work by moving coolant through a cylinder while it’s being compressed. The shaft within this sort of compressor contains several blades. This type is suitable for most residential air conditioners. However, it might not work well in larger homes.

Centrifugal Compressor

This compressor works by using centrifugal force to move refrigerant throughout the system. The refrigerant is spun rapidly with an impeller to compress it. You may benefit from a centrifugal compressor if you have a larger HVAC system. They are most effective in commercial and industrial facilities.

Reciprocating Compressor

Reciprocating compressors are used in most residential air conditioner systems. This type of compressor uses a piston that’s able to move air up and down within a cylinder. When the air moves downward, a vacuum is created that draws in the nearby refrigerant. If the air moves upward, the refrigerant vapor will compress before being sent to the condenser. Reciprocating compressors are perfect for air conditioners with less than 10 horsepower.

Screw Compressor

Screw compressors offer considerable efficiency and reliability. These components are often used in larger buildings that require a substantial amount of cool air. If a building needs the air to be cooled continuously, a screw compressor is the ideal model. This compressor consists of two large rotors that move refrigerant from one end of the unit to the other. As the refrigerant travels through the system, the space shrinks in size, which allows the solution to be compressed.

Factors to Consider Before Purchase

Before buying a compressor for your AC, there are several factors you should consider. For example, each compressor has a specific capacity and size that you must identify. The right size is needed to meet the cooling needs of your home. If the unit is too small, it won’t cool your home effectively. If it is too large, it may be inefficient.

The compressor you choose must also integrate properly with the other components in your system. If the compressor pairs well with the evaporator and condenser coil, your entire system will run more efficiently. Before buying a compressor, make sure it’s compatible with your current air conditioner.

It is always best to consult with HVAC professionals to make the right choice. They have the necessary experience and training, and they are familiar with practically all HVAC systems on the market.

If you need to replace an old or damaged compressor in your existing air conditioning system, our team at MD Air Conditioning & Heating has experience handling all HVAC components. We can help you choose the right compressor after we inspect your current one. Our team knows how difficult it can be to wait for an AC to be fixed when it’s hot outside, which is why we offer evening and weekend service. We also provide San Antonio, TX homeowners with heat pump installation, indoor air quality, and heating maintenance services.

Call MD Air Conditioning & Heating today to schedule our AC repair services or enter into a maintenance agreement.

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