In a typical installation, each split air conditioner (AC) unit will have its own dedicated compressor. This is because each AC unit operates independently and requires its own compressor to circulate and compress the refrigerant. Having separate compressors for each AC unit allows for individual control and operation of each unit.
Using a shared compressor for multiple AC units in a room is not a common practice. It would require complex plumbing and control systems to distribute the refrigerant properly between the units. Additionally, it would limit the ability to control each AC unit independently, as they would be dependent on the same compressor.
Furthermore, having separate compressors offers advantages such as better control over temperature settings, zoning capabilities, and the ability to operate each AC unit individually based on the specific needs of the room or occupants.
It's worth noting that there are centralized air conditioning systems, such as Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) systems, that can provide cooling to multiple indoor units using a shared compressor. However, these systems are designed specifically for this purpose and employ sophisticated technology and controls to manage the refrigerant flow and individual unit operation.
For standard split air conditioning systems in residential or commercial applications, it is recommended to have separate compressors for each AC unit for optimal performance and control.