When you turn off the switch or power supply of a window air conditioner (AC), it's generally a good practice to wait at least 3 to 5 minutes before restarting the compressor. This waiting period is important for the compressor to equalize the internal pressures and for the refrigerant to stabilize.
The reason for this brief delay is to prevent potential damage to the compressor, which is the heart of the air conditioning system. The compressor contains oil, and during operation, it circulates with the refrigerant to ensure smooth functioning and to keep critical components lubricated. When the compressor suddenly shuts off, the refrigerant and oil may not be evenly distributed within the compressor.
By waiting a few minutes before restarting, you allow the refrigerant pressure to stabilize and the oil to settle back into the compressor's crankcase. This prevents the compressor from experiencing excessive strain or damage when it starts up again. Rapid restarts can lead to "compressor slugging," a condition where liquid refrigerant enters the compressor, causing it to work harder and potentially resulting in failure.
Additionally, waiting for a few minutes also helps in protecting the electrical components of the air conditioner, as they need time to cool down before being powered on again.
In summary, it's best to wait at least 3 to 5 minutes after turning off the switch of a window air conditioner before restarting it to ensure the compressor and other components function properly and to avoid potential damage.