Why Does an Air Conditioner Have Compressor Delay Protection?

Air conditioners have been indispensable home appliances in our daily lives. But have you ever noticed that sometimes we shut off the air conditioner, and if we restart it immediately, the air conditioner will not work quickly; instead, it will delay for a period and then start to work? This is not a malfunction but a protection mechanism.

I. What is the compressor delay protection?

The compressor delay protection is a safety setting inside of the air conditioner. Its function is to forbid the compressor from restarting immediately after it turns off for a period. Normally the period lasts 3 to 10 minutes.

II. Why does the air conditioner need compressor delay protection?

1. To protect the compressor and extend its lifespan
   
   The compressor is the most important part in the air conditioning system. When the compressor stops its work, there is still high-pressure, high-temperature refrigerant inside. If it restarts immediately, then the compressor will overburden the mechanical stress and liquid shock pressure, resulting in damage to the motor or other components inside the compressor.
   The compressor delay protection allows refrigerant and oil pressures to return to equilibrium, reducing the risk of damage.
   
   
2. Avoid current shock
   
   The compressor needs high starting current to operate. (3-5 times higher than operation current) If under frequent start-ups, it will lead to a current surge and break the electric components and even trigger fuses or circuit breakers.
   
   
3. Ensure cooling/heating stability
   
   The circulation of refrigerant and oil needs time, and the compressor delay protection can keep the pressure and temperature back to normal.
   The protection mechanism could avoid issues caused by short-term frequent start-ups, such as unstable refrigerant circulation, large temperature fluctuation, and low cooling efficiency.

III. Misunderstandings about the delay

1. The air conditioner is not sensitive enough
   
   Some people regard the situation as a malfunction; actually, it is a normal design for every aircon unit.
   
   
2. The shorter the delay, the better the air conditioner
   
   In fact, a shorter delay will increase the risk of the compressor being damaged, while too long a delay will influence the using experience. The compressor manufacturer had already designed the delay under the best performance.

The compressor delay protection is an essential safety feature in air conditioner design. It protects the compressor, reduces current surges, and maintains system stability. Understanding this feature not only helps prevent misconceptions but also allows you to use your air conditioner more effectively, extending its lifespan.