Which component is responsible for compressing the refrigerant in an HVAC system?

In an HVAC system, the component responsible for compressing the refrigerant is the compressor. The compressor plays a crucial role in the refrigeration cycle by increasing the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant gas. When the refrigerant enters the compressor, it is in a low-pressure gaseous state. The compressor then compresses the gas, which decreases its volume and increases its pressure. This process is essential for the refrigerant to move through the system, enabling it to release heat in the condenser and absorb heat in the evaporator, thus facilitating effective heating or cooling within the environment.

The other components have different functions. The evaporator’s role is to absorb heat from the indoor environment, allowing the refrigerant to evaporate and turn into gas. The thermal expansion valve controls the flow of refrigerant into the evaporator and regulates its pressure, while the condenser dissipates heat from the refrigerant, allowing it to condense back into a liquid state. Each component is vital for the overall operation of the HVAC system, but the compressor is specifically tasked with the function of compressing the refrigerant.