A reciprocating multi-cylinder air conditioning or refrigeration compressor starts cycling on/off. What would one do to prevent cycling?

Official USCG Answer & Rule Citation

Correct Answer: Option D — Adjust compressor's unloader to reduce operating cylinders.

Short-cycling on multi-cylinder reciprocating compressors under low thermal loads is mitigated by engaging cylinder unloaders, which deactivate active pumping cylinders to match reduced refrigerant mass flow demands.

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