An inefficient compressor is typically indicated by what kind of head and suction pressures?

An inefficient compressor is typically indicated by lower than normal suction pressures paired with higher than normal head pressures. Low suction pressure can suggest that the compressor is struggling to draw in the refrigerant, often due to factors like low refrigerant levels, restrictions, or excessive wear and tear on the compressor itself. On the other hand, higher than normal head pressure can occur because the compressor is working harder to overcome the increased resistance or load, which is often a result of poor heat exchange or blocked airflow across the condenser.

The combination of these two pressures reflects the compressor's inefficiency. When the suction pressure is lower than it should be, it signifies that the compressor cannot effectively pull in the gas, leading to an imbalance in the refrigerant cycle. At the same time, the increase in head pressure indicates the compressor is under stress, possibly due to the lack of adequate refrigerant flow or other mechanical failures. This understanding is crucial for diagnosing issues within HVAC systems and ensuring optimal performance.