When choosing a refrigeration compressor for a particular job, there are several specifications a service technician must consider in order to choose the right one. Some of these specifications include refrigerant used, evaporating and condensing temperatures, application (high, medium, or low temperature), starting torque, and the system’s required capacity.
Many times when ordering a compressor, a technician states its capacity in horsepower (hp). However, this is not the best way. The capacity should be stated in Btuh as this is a much more accurate way to discuss the compressor’s capacity.