What is the main function of a compressor in an HVAC system?

The primary function of a compressor in an HVAC system is to change low-pressure gas into high-pressure gas. This process is essential because it increases the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant, allowing it to release heat effectively in the condenser. By compressing the refrigerant, the compressor facilitates its movement through the system and supports the overall refrigeration cycle.

In an HVAC system, after the refrigerant absorbs heat from the indoor environment and becomes a low-pressure gas, the compressor compresses this gas, raising both its pressure and temperature. This transformation is crucial for the efficiency and functioning of the refrigeration cycle. Once the refrigerant is compressed, it flows to the condenser where it releases its heat to the outside environment before becoming a liquid again and returning to the evaporator to absorb more heat indoors.

While filtering air, heating refrigerant, and circulating coolant are important functions of various components within an HVAC system (like air filters, heaters, and pumps), they do not directly pertain to the fundamental role played by the compressor in altering the state of refrigerant and facilitating the refrigeration process. Thus, the correct answer highlights the compressor’s vital role in maintaining the cycle essential for heating and cooling in HVAC systems.