What is usually the primary cause for a compressor to overheat?

The primary cause for a compressor to overheat is typically inadequate airflow. This situation can lead to insufficient heat exchange, causing the compressor to work harder to cycle refrigerant. When the airflow is restricted, whether due to dirty filters, blocked ducts, or malfunctioning blower components, the compressor cannot expel heat effectively. This overworking can lead to overheating, damaging the compressor over time and potentially causing it to fail.

Other factors like low refrigerant charge and high ambient temperatures can also contribute to overheating by affecting the compressor's operation; however, inadequate airflow is often the most common and immediate cause. Without sufficient airflow, the system cannot effectively manage the heat generated by the compressor, leading to excessive temperatures and operational issues.