What is the purpose of a compressor in an air conditioning system?

The role of a compressor in an air conditioning system is pivotal because it is responsible for compressing and moving the refrigerant throughout the system. This process involves increasing the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant gas, allowing it to circulate from the evaporator to the condenser. By doing so, the compressor enables the system to absorb heat from the inside of a building and release it outside, which is essential for cooling the indoor environment.

The compressor also ensures that the refrigerant transitions appropriately between phases — from gas to liquid and back again as it flows through the evaporator and condenser. This movement is crucial for maintaining the cycle of heat absorption and rejection in the air conditioning system, making the compressor an integral component for the HVAC system's effective operation.

Other options do not accurately reflect the compressor's functions. While cooling refrigerant is part of the process, it is primarily the evaporator and condenser that manage this action. Circulating air through the ductwork is the function of the blower or air handler, while filtering particles from the refrigerant is typically handled by a filter dryer or liquid line filter, not the compressor itself.