Thermal Limiting Fuse: Description and Operation

The thermal limiter switch is used to measure the compressor surface temperature. If the compressor surface temperature is excessive, the switch will cut the battery feed voltage to the compressor clutch coil. The switch will reset itself, once the compressor surface temperature returns to normal. The switch itself is not adjustable or serviceable. If faulty the compressor must be replaced.

The thermal limiter switch will interrupt the battery feed to the compressor clutch coil at a temperature of about 122 to 128 °C (250 to 260 °F). The switch will reset and restore the clutch coil operation at a temperature of about 104 to 116 °C (220 to 240 °F).