How Stuff Works: An AC Compressor Automobile

An AC compressor keeps the inside of your car cool.

The air conditioning (AC) system in a vehicle consists of several parts such as the AC evaporator, compressor and condenser. The AC compressor is one of, if not the, most important of these components, as a vehicle's AC system would be virtually worthless without it. Having information on how an AC compressor works can be beneficial for automobile owners.

Function

Refrigerant in a vehicle's air conditioning system is pressurized by the AC compressor. The compressor then pumps the refrigerant so that it travels throughout the AC system.

Sensors

The sensors on automobiles with climate control systems can affect the way a compressor functions. An example of this would be vehicles equipped with pressure transducers. By keeping tabs on refrigerant pressure, the transducer will turn the compressor off whenever these pressures get too high.

Oil

For a compressor to function correctly, the oil levels have to be precisely maintained. Having more oil than needed can prevent the AC system from cooling correctly. On the other hand, not enough oil in the compressor could cause it to stop working altogether. By having the compressor flushed to remove all the oil, the correct levels can then be added back according to your vehicle's specifications.

References

• AA1Car: Diagnosing and Fixing A/C Compressor Failures