Contactors are mechanical switches used to control the power supply to an air conditioning unit. They are typically located in the outdoor unit and consist of a coil and a set of contacts. When the coil is energized, it creates a magnetic field that pulls the contacts together, completing the circuit and allowing power to flow to the unit. When the coil is de-energized, the magnetic field disappears, and the contacts open, stopping the flow of power.
Contactors are used in air conditioning units to control the power supply to the compressor, condenser fan, and other components. They are often used in conjunction with a thermostat, which controls the temperature of the unit by turning the contactor on and off.
Contactors can also be used to protect the air conditioning unit from damage. If the unit overheats or experiences a power surge, the contactor can open, cutting off the power supply and preventing damage to the unit.
