What is the purpose of a low-pressure switch in refrigeration systems?

The purpose of a low-pressure switch in refrigeration systems is primarily to protect the compressor from running on low refrigerant levels. This component monitors the pressure within the system, and when it detects that the pressure falls below a set threshold, it signals the compressor to shut off. This action prevents potential damage to the compressor, which can occur due to insufficient refrigerant. Low refrigerant levels can lead to inadequate lubrication, overheating, and ultimately compressor failure.

While the other functions mentioned relate to various aspects of refrigeration systems, they do not accurately describe the core functionality of the low-pressure switch. For instance, enhancing cooling speed or measuring refrigerant temperature falls outside the designated role of a low-pressure switch, which is focused on maintaining operational safety by ensuring the compressor does not run under adverse pressure conditions.