What should be monitored to prevent compressor overheating?

Monitoring the pressure ratio is crucial for preventing compressor overheating because it helps ensure that the compressor operates within its designed range. A proper pressure ratio indicates that the compressor is effectively compressing the refrigerant without excessive load. When the pressure ratio is too high, it can lead to increased work on the compressor, causing it to generate excessive heat. This overheating can then lead to mechanical failure or reduced efficiency in the system.

While other factors such as voltage fluctuations, temperature differentials, and low ambient conditions are important for the overall operation of a cooling system, they do not directly indicate the immediate risk of compressor overheating in the same way that pressure ratio monitoring does. Managing pressure ratios helps in maintaining the thermal balance essential for the longevity and effectiveness of the compressor.