What happens to system performance when there is low oil in the system?

When there is low oil in an air conditioning system, increased system wear and noise occurs primarily because oil plays a critical role in lubricating the moving parts of the compressor and other components. The oil reduces friction between mechanical parts, ensuring they can operate smoothly. Without adequate lubrication, these components are subjected to higher friction and heat, which leads to increased wear and potential breakdowns.

Additionally, the absence of sufficient oil can cause excess noise as parts may grind against each other rather than glide smoothly. Over time, this can result in reduced efficiency of the system and possibly lead to costly repairs or even a complete system failure.

In contrast, low oil levels do not enhance cooling effects, improve energy efficiency, or bolster refrigerant flow; in fact, they usually have the opposite impact, leading to decreased performance and potential system damage.