Can jumping a pressure switch on an ac unit cause damage to the compressor? (No gas)
There are AC systems that are not equipped with pressure switches.
I have attended many service calls on such systems where the unit is empty and I find and fix the leak and recharge the system and it continues to work.
Most clients will turn the system off when they notice there's an issue with the cooling. You will likely run into problems if the system is left running without refrigerant however there is an internal overload that should prevent the compressor from overheating.
I'm just wondering if it can potentially cause damage to the compressor if jumped? The unit is equipped with the pressure switch.
I suppose it depends on what has failed to make you want to jump the switch. If the switch is bad and there is proper pressure, then no harm. If you are jumping the switch because you have low pressure, then yes, it can cause damage. The switch is there for a reason. But like Admin said, sometimes you can get away with it and the damage is not catastrophic.
Running a system with no refrigerant can definitely harm the system. The compressor need suction gas to cool the motor windings, without it the motor will run hotter than normal.
Heat kills compressors.