What effect does high discharge pressure have on an air conditioning system's performance?

High discharge pressure in an air conditioning system can lead to both potential compressor damage and decreased system efficiency, making the combination of these effects the most accurate representation of the issue at hand.

When the discharge pressure is elevated, it means that the compressor is working harder to move the refrigerant through the system. This increased workload can lead to overheating and ultimately damage the compressor, which is a critical component of the system. If the compressor suffers from excessive heat, it could lead to reduced lubrication, increased wear, or even catastrophic failure.

In addition to the potential for compressor damage, high discharge pressure negatively impacts the efficiency of the system. When the discharge pressure is high, the system must use more energy to circulate the refrigerant, thus decreasing overall efficiency. This results in higher energy bills and can place additional strain on the components of the system, potentially leading to more maintenance issues over time.

Therefore, the assertion that high discharge pressure can lead to both potential compressor damage and decreased system efficiency correctly identifies the pervasive problems that such a condition can cause within an air conditioning system.