High Pressure Cutoff Switch
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2007 Mercury Mariner and 2007 Ford Escape. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
The high pressure cutoff switch is used to interrupt A/C compressor operation in the event of high system discharge pressures.
- The high pressure cutoff switch is mounted on a Schrader valve-type fitting on the high pressure side of the condenser to evaporator line.
- A valve depressor, located inside the threaded end of the high pressure cutoff switch, is used to monitor the compressor discharge pressure.
- It is not necessary to discharge the refrigerant system to remove the A/C pressure cutoff switch.
- The high pressure cutoff switch has 2 sets of contacts. One electrical contact is normally closed.
- When the compressor discharge pressure rises to approximately 3,103 kPa (450 psi), the switch contacts open, disengaging the A/C compressor.
- When the pressure drops to approximately 1,724 kPa (250 psi), the contacts close to allow operation of the A/C compressor.
The switch contains a second set of electrical contacts used for high-speed fan control.
- When the compressor discharge pressure reaches approximately 2,241 kPa (325 psi), these contacts close and engage the high-speed fan control.
- When the pressure drops to approximately 1,896 kPa (275 psi), the contacts again open and the high speed fan control is disengaged.