Never energize which type of compressor if the discharge service valve is closed?

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When the discharge service valve is closed, there’s no path for the gas the compressor is trying to push, so energizing the compressor creates a deadhead condition with rapidly rising pressure on the discharge side. This sudden pressure buildup can damage valves, seals, and fittings inside the compressor and may lead to mechanical failure or oil and refrigerant issues. Reciprocating compressors are particularly sensitive to this because their discharge path relies on a valve in the head that opens to allow flow; blocking that path means the piston is compressing against a closed valve, causing the pressure to spike quickly. The other compressor types have different internal flow paths and valve arrangements, but the safe rule is to avoid energizing any compressor when the discharge path is closed. This question highlights that deadheading a reciprocating compressor poses a high risk of internal damage in that specific design.