Is a condensing unit the same as a compressor?

No, a condensing unit is fundamentally different from a compressor. They represent distinct levels of a refrigeration system’s hierarchy:

Functional Role
Compressor: Single component that mechanically pressurizes refrigerant gas.
Condensing Unit: Integrated assembly containing the compressor, condenser, fan(s), controls, and other ancillary parts.

Physical Scope
Compressor: A standalone mechanical pump (e.g., scroll, piston, rotary).
Condensing Unit: A packaged outdoor module that houses the compressor alongside heat rejection components.

System Integration
Compressor: Requires external connections to condenser, evaporator, and expansion devices to function.
Condensing Unit: Designed as a pre-assembled subsystem; only requires connection to an evaporator to complete the refrigeration circuit.

Maintenance Reality
Compressor: Serviced/replaced as an individual part (e.g., valve repairs, motor burnout).
Condensing Unit: Maintained as a unified assembly (e.g., coil cleaning, fan motor replacement, refrigerant charging).

Industry Terminology
Technicians order a "compressor" for mechanical failure repairs.
They procure a "condensing unit" when replacing the entire outdoor section.

Key Difference in Practice:
The compressor is the heart of the refrigeration cycle, while the condensing unit is the complete chest cavity housing that heart alongside critical supporting organs.