Rotary Vs. Scroll: Pros And Cons Of Two Common AC Compressor Types
The compressor is one of the most important parts of an air conditioning system since it is the compressor that pushes out the initial refrigerant that fuels the entire cooling process. There are different types of compressors available that vary in cooling efficiency, energy efficiency, and maintainability. Understanding the difference between the types of compressors can help make sure you choose the best unit for your home. Always consult with an hvac repair and installation company before making your final decision.
Two of the most common types of compressors are scroll compressors and rotary compressors. What are the pros and cons of each of these types of air conditioning compressor types?
Greater Cooling and Energy Efficiency: Scroll
Scroll air compressors have some of the greatest cooling power on the market, which is why you will find this type of compressor in as many refrigerators as air conditioners. The scroll compressor doesn't cool at the cost of greater electric use, as the unit is fairly energy efficient. But the cooling ability does cause the compressor to become hotter than rotary units while running, which can potentially lead to overheating and the safety shutdown of the air conditioner.
Rotary compressors don't offer the same cooling capacity in terms of how cold the air can get how quickly. And a rotary unit cools its air at a slower rate than the scroll compressor. But the tradeoff is that rotary units run cooler and have less of a risk of overheating the air conditioner.
Larger Capacity but Lower Price: Rotary
The rotary compressor has more power and can therefore cool more air than a scroll unit. Rotary compressors are therefore a better option in larger central air conditioning system but might be wasted in a smaller central unit or in a window air conditioner.
Despite its ability to cool larger quantities of air, a rotary unit is actually less expensive than a scroll compressor. The price difference is passed on to the cost of the overall air conditioning unit or systems, which can become a deciding factor when choosing your unit.
Maintenance Issues: Both
Scroll and rotary compressors both have their own maintenance issues. The more complicated scroll compressor is next to impossible to repair if a part breaks and you will likely need to invest in an entire new replacement compressor. But a scroll compressor is lower maintenance up until a part actually breaks.
Rotary compressors require frequent maintenance and frequent usage. You can't let a rotary compressor set unused for long stretches of time without the major risk of damage to the compressor. Running the compressor keeps things running smoothly and keeps the parts properly loosened and lubricated. For more information, talk to a professional like Comfort Pros.
