What might cause a compressor to run continuously without cycling?

When a compressor runs continuously without cycling, it's essential to consider various components that can affect its operation. A blocked condenser coil can restrict airflow and hinder the heat exchange process, causing the compressor to work harder and not achieve the desired temperature, leading to continuous operation.

A faulty thermostat plays a critical role in regulating the temperature by signaling the compressor when to turn on or off. If the thermostat is defective or miscalibrated, it may not register the temperature correctly, resulting in the compressor running continuously because it never receives the signal to cycle off.

Additionally, a malfunctioning expansion valve can disrupt the flow of refrigerant, potentially causing low pressure in the system. If the refrigerant flow is insufficient due to a stuck or incorrectly operating expansion valve, the system may not effectively cool the conditioned space, leading to constant operation of the compressor.

Given that each of these components can independently lead to continuous compressor operation, the presence of one or more faulty elements can culminate in the compressor running without cycling. Therefore, all of the listed scenarios can contribute to this problem, making the option that includes all of them the most comprehensive answer.