What Effect Does Moisture Have On A Refrigeration System

If you own a refrigerator, freezer, air conditioner or any other cooling appliance, you may wonder how moisture affects its performance and longevity. Moisture is a common enemy of refrigeration systems, as it can cause various problems such as corrosion, freezing, clogging and acid formation. In this post, we will explain what causes moisture in a refrigeration system, what are its effects and how to prevent or remove it.

Moisture in a refrigeration system is the presence of water in liquid or vapor form, either dissolved in the refrigerant or oil, or as free water in the tubing or components.

How does moisture enter a refrigeration system?

There are several possible sources of moisture in a refrigeration system, such as:

• Damage to the evaporator tube, allowing ice, water or moisture that may be in this region to enter the cooling circuit.
• Compressor exposed to air for a long time, allowing moisture to enter it.
• System cleaning and vacuum done poorly or not enough.
• Installation of a used compressor that already has moisture in it, even if the vacuum was done correctly.
• Reusing the filter drier.

What are the effects of moisture in a refrigeration system?

Moisture can have several negative impacts on a refrigeration system, such as:

• Cooling capacity loss due to blockages of the capillary tube / expansion valve, especially by water freezing and or the buildup of salt deposits.
• Loss of oil lubricity, causing more wear on the compressor’s moving parts which can lead to higher energy consumption, or even causing it to break.
• Acid formation by the reaction between the oil and moisture, creating acid and alcohol residues, which can corrode the metals of the internal parts of the compressor and the tubing.
• Burn out when the refrigerant is exposed to the compressor motor.

How to prevent or remove moisture from a refrigeration system?

The best way to prevent moisture from entering a refrigeration system is to follow proper installation and maintenance procedures, such as:

• Using rubber plugs on service tubes when not in use.
• Performing adequate system cleaning and vacuum by using a specific pump, never with another compressor.
• Replacing the filter drier whenever opening the system or changing the compressor.
• Using only new and compatible compressors, refrigerants and oils.

If moisture is already present in a refrigeration system, it can be removed by applying a vacuum. However, this may not be enough to eliminate all the impurities and residues that moisture may have caused. Therefore, it is recommended to replace the contaminated components and clean the tubing with a suitable solvent.

FAQs

Q: What is a filter drier and why is it important?

A: A filter drier is a device that contains a drying agent that absorbs moisture and impurities from the refrigerant and oil mix. It is important to use a filter drier that is specifically designed for the compressor’s refrigerant fluid and lubricating oil mix, so that it only absorbs moisture and not the rest of the components.

Q: How can I tell if there is moisture in my refrigeration system?

A: Some signs that may indicate moisture in your refrigeration system are:

• Frost or ice formation on the suction line or evaporator coil.
• Reduced cooling performance or efficiency.
• Strange noises or vibrations from the compressor.
• Oil leakage or discoloration.

Q: How often should I check for moisture in my refrigeration system?

A: It depends on several factors such as the type, size and usage of your refrigeration system, as well as the environmental conditions. However, as a general rule, it is advisable to check for moisture at least once a year, preferably before the peak cooling season. You can use a moisture indicator device or a chemical test kit to measure the moisture level in your system.

Moisture is one of the most common and harmful contaminants in a refrigeration system. It can affect its performance, efficiency and lifespan. Therefore, it is essential to prevent it from entering your system and remove it if it does. By following proper installation and maintenance practices, you can ensure that your refrigeration system operates smoothly and reliably for years to come.