Compressor cycles too often when using the heater

Just a quick question regarding my compressor. When I'm using the heater, the compressor cycles a little too often. I understand that this is a good indication that I have a low level of refrigerant when using the A/C, but is it supposed to even kick in even if I'm heating the cabin?

I got a reply from another site saying that if i'm using the defroster, there is a need for the compressor to kick in to balance pressure. Can someone validate this? I have not tested it thoroughly with the different settings as it didn't occur to me, but I do know that the compressor seems to cycle more in defrost, than when on A/C.

I have a 97 Explorer V6 push rod.

if you are selecting defrost/ac mode the A/C is used other than that the compressor should not run

If the compressor is running in the heat mode, you have a problem in the system. Have the switch tested to be sure it is working properly.

According to the factory service manual, the A/C compressor will be engaged during the following modes:



A/C
Max A/C
Defrost
Floor/Defrost
Panel/Floor

Of course this depends on the ambient air temp. If the ambient temp is below 32 degrees F the compressor will not engage to prevent condensation from freezing.

It will be disabled when the following modes are selected:


Off
Vent
Floor


If the clutch is cycling rapidly when one of the modes is selected where the clutch should engage, the system is either low on charge, overcharged, or the clutch is weak (field coil, gap too large, etc.).

-Rod