Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Refrigerant Pressure Sensor / Switch: Description and Operation

A/C Pressure Switch
The A/C pressure switch consists of a high-low pressure switch (A/C pressure switch A) and a middle pressure switch (A/C pressure switch B).




- High-low pressure switch
If the refrigerant pressure becomes too high (due to blockage or lack of airflow at the A/C condenser), or too low (due to leakage), the A/C pressure switch stops the A/C request signal to the ECM/PCM and the A/C compressor stops operating.










- Middle pressure switch
If the refrigerant pressure goes above 1, 470 kPa (15.0 kgf/sq.cm, 213 psi), the A/C pressure switch closes to signal the ECM/PCM to change the speed of the A/C condenser fan and radiator fan to high when the refrigerant pressure drops below 1, 075 kPa (10.1 kgf/sq.cm, 156 psi), the A/C pressure switch opens to signal the ECM/PCM to change the speed of the A/C condenser fan and radiator fan to low.