Just a few reasons an accumulator/filter drier must be replaced during compressor replacement.
The accumulator contains the desiccant bag that absorbs trace amounts of moisture entering the system. The bag must contain the correct amount and type of desiccant (XH7 or XH9). Trace moisture can lead to the formation of corrosive acids and cause freeze ups in the system. If the desiccant bag is not properly secured to the “J” tube it can wear through and release the desiccant material and contaminate the entire system.
SMALL CHANGE IN AIRFLOW CAN HAVE A BIG IMPACT ON A/C PERFORMANCE!
Poor A/C performance after compressor replacement may not be associated with an airflow issue, especially when no obvious signs of engine overheating are evident. Therefore, a thorough evaluation of the system should be performed to avoid repeat failures and COMEBACKS following an A/C repair job.
COMMON CONDITIONS RESULTING IN POOR AIRFLOW
Many of today’s A/C systems are designed with a low-mount compressor. These units are susceptible to “liquid slugging,” which could lead to a catastrophic compressor failure in a matter of seconds. This is caused when oil and liquid refrigerant collect in the compressor body when the system is at rest, resulting in hydraulic lock and catastrophic failure upon initial compressor engagement. Protect your investment with Four Seasons® award winning product, The Deslugger®.
When a compressor experiences a catastrophic compressor failure, it is generally the result of an underlying issue. Determining the root cause of the compressor failure is just one of the essential steps to avoid a comeback and ensure a successful repair.
Performing an “Oil Audit” may help indicate the root cause of a compressor failure. Always drain and capture as much of the old oil as possible when replacing a compressor.The amount recovered and its condition can provide important clues as to the root cause of the compressor failure. Don’t forget to record the amount recovered during refrigerant recovery if there was refrigerant in the system. Drain oil from the discharge and suction ports and also from the compressor crankcase if it has a drain plug.
!*The above scenarios may not always apply. That is why it is important to make sure that if a compressor has experienced a catastrophic failure, every inch of the refrigerant path is either new or flushed before a new compressor is installed.