What is a potential consequence of moisture in a refrigeration system?

What is a potential consequence of moisture in a refrigeration system?

• A. Compressor failure
• B. Higher system efficiency
• C. Longer compressor life
• D. Reduced noise

Answer: (A)

Moisture in a refrigeration system is dangerous because it reacts with refrigerant and oil under operating temperatures to form acids that attack metal parts and degrade lubrication. Those acids, along with the degraded oil, increase wear, promote overheating, and can lead to compressor failure. Water can also freeze in narrow passages such as the metering device or evaporator ports, blocking flow and causing abnormal pressures or liquid slugging that puts extra stress on the compressor. Additionally, moisture can emulsify with oil, thinning lubrication and forming sludge that clogs passages. All of these issues center on damaging the compressor, making compressor failure the likely consequence. Moisture does not improve efficiency, extend compressor life, or reduce noise; it tends to cause the opposite.

Moisture in a refrigeration system is dangerous because it reacts with refrigerant and oil under operating temperatures to form acids that attack metal parts and degrade lubrication. Those acids, along with the degraded oil, increase wear, promote overheating, and can lead to compressor failure. Water can also freeze in narrow passages such as the metering device or evaporator ports, blocking flow and causing abnormal pressures or liquid slugging that puts extra stress on the compressor. Additionally, moisture can emulsify with oil, thinning lubrication and forming sludge that clogs passages. All of these issues center on damaging the compressor, making compressor failure the likely consequence. Moisture does not improve efficiency, extend compressor life, or reduce noise; it tends to cause the opposite.