How Does AC Compressor Work?

The compressor is the core of your air conditioning system. It circulates refrigerant between the indoor and outdoor coils, enabling heat transfer that keeps your home or workspace cool.

Here’s how it works:
• The compressor takes in low-pressure refrigerant gas from the evaporator coil.
• It compresses it into a high-pressure, high-temperature gas.
• This gas moves to the condenser coil, where it releases heat to the outside air and turns back into liquid refrigerant.
• The liquid refrigerant then travels back to the evaporator, where it absorbs indoor heat, completing the cooling cycle.

A well-performing compressor means better cooling efficiency, lower electricity bills, and a longer-lasting air conditioning system.

Types of AC Compressors

Every air conditioning system relies on a compressor, but not all compressors work in the same way. Each type is designed with different technology to suit specific cooling capacities, efficiency goals, and system applications. Below are the most common compressor types you’ll find in Carrier Air Conditioners, each with its own advantages and ideal use cases.

1. Scroll Compressor

Common in modern air conditioners, scroll compressors use two spiral-shaped scrolls — one stationary and one orbiting — to compress refrigerant smoothly.

Advantages: High efficiency, quiet operation, fewer moving parts, and long lifespan.
Disadvantages: Higher upfront cost compared to reciprocating compressors.
Best For: Residential and commercial applications needing reliable, efficient cooling.

2. Rotary Compressor

Found in compact and mid-size air conditioners, rotary compressors use rotating rollers to compress refrigerant continuously.

Advantages: Quiet, compact design, and good efficiency for smaller capacities.
Disadvantages: Not ideal for large cooling loads.
Best For: Apartments, offices, and light commercial units.

3. Reciprocating Compressor

This traditional type uses pistons and cylinders (similar to a car engine) to compress refrigerant.

Advantages: Widely available, easy to repair, and suitable for smaller systems.
Disadvantages: Noisy, less energy-efficient, and more wear and tear due to many moving parts.
Best For: Small to medium cooling systems or older setups.

4. Centrifugal Compressor

These are large-scale compressors that use a high-speed impeller to accelerate refrigerant vapor and convert kinetic energy into pressure.

Advantages: Handles large volumes of air efficiently, ideal for big systems.
Disadvantages: Expensive and complex — requires expert maintenance.
Best For: Chillers, district cooling systems, and large industrial or commercial buildings.

5. Screw Compressor

This type uses two interlocking helical rotors to compress refrigerant continuously and smoothly.

Advantages: Very reliable, durable, and efficient for continuous operation.
Disadvantages: High initial cost and more complex servicing.
Best For: Large buildings, industrial plants, and chilled water systems.

Signs Your AC Compressor Might Be Failing

Early detection can prevent major damage. Watch out for these symptoms:

• Warm Air — The system runs, but air isn’t cooling.
• Loud or Unusual Sounds — Grinding, rattling, or clicking noises can signal mechanical wear.
• Frequent Breaker Trips — The compressor may be overloading your circuit.
• Rising Energy Bills — Reduced efficiency means your system works harder.
• Unit Shuts Off Frequently — Overheating or pressure issues may cause shutdowns.

Looking for a Carrier AC Solution?

Whether you need a new Carrier air conditioning system, compressor replacement, or expert maintenance service, our sales team is here to help.

Speak with our experts today or visit our online store to explore Carrier’s full range of reliable, energy-efficient cooling solutions.