Nate Core Practice Test

The function of a compressor in an HVAC system is primarily to increase the pressure of the refrigerant and circulate it through the system. This process is vital for the refrigeration cycle, which is how HVAC systems regulate temperature and, in some cases, humidity.

When the refrigerant enters the compressor, it is in a low-pressure gaseous state. The compressor compresses this gas, raising its pressure significantly and converting it to a high-temperature, high-pressure gas. This high-pressure gaseous refrigerant is then directed to the condenser, where it releases heat and changes into a liquid state. The ability of the compressor to increase pressure is essential for moving the refrigerant through the system and allowing the heat exchange processes that cool the indoor environment.

Understanding the compressor's role is crucial for anyone studying HVAC systems, as it emphasizes the importance of proper refrigerant management and the overall efficiency of the cooling process. The other choices, while related to HVAC functions, do not accurately describe the primary role of the compressor within the system.