The compressor used in a water-cooled air conditioning system is short cycling. A service check determines that the suction pressure remains above the normal cut-in point during cycling and that the discharge pressure rapidly builds up to the cut-out point while running and gradually falls to the cut-in point during the off cycle. What is likely the cause?

Question

Accepted Answer

Option B: reduction in condenser water flow (scaled condenser). A fouled or scaled condenser restricts heat transfer, causing head pressure to rise rapidly to the high-pressure cutout while suction pressure remains elevated due to inadequate liquid subcooling and refrigerant boiling.