Can a filter drier be installed vertically?

Author: Mr. Irving Heidenreich III  |  Last update: Saturday, December 27, 2025

The filter drier can be installed in horizontal position or vertical position. For best performance, the suction line filter drier installation as close as possible to the compressor inlet. Glen refrigeration suggest to install a suitable bracket to support the filter drier.

Does it matter which way a filter drier goes?

In this design one drier is ahead of the expansion device, and the other drier is ahead of the check valve. When installed in these locations, the flow through each drier is always in the same direction, see Figure 2. Standard filter-driers will not tolerate flow in the reverse direction.

What happens if you install a filter drier the wrong way?

If installed backwards, the filter drier will become useless.

What is the position of the filter drier?

You'll typically find the filter drier installed in the liquid line, between the condenser and the expansion valve. This strategic location ensures that the refrigerant, after going through the compression and condensation processes, gets purified before it enters the evaporative phase.

What is the direction of the filter drier core?

The refrigerant flow direction, indicated by an arrow on the filter drier shells' tags, should be complied with. Assembly can be performed in any position, but not vertically with the outlet connection oriented downwards.

Filter Drier Trouble

Can filter driers be installed vertically?

Suction Line Filter-Driers and Suction Filters may be installed either in a horizontal or vertical position.

What happens if you don't change the filter drier?

If the suction line drier is left in long enough, it may become fully saturated if there's a lot of moisture present. Then the drier begins to disintegrate, resulting in abrasive materials running through a system. Big mess. Don't let it happen.

What side is the receiver drier on?

The receiver drier is a component that protects all the other parts of the A/C loop. It is located between the condenser outlet and the expansion valve inlet, on the high-pressure side of the car A/C loop.

What is the temperature difference for filter drier HVAC?

Filter driers are designed to have an extremely low pressure drop across them even while filtering down to 25 microns and trapping both moisture and acids. On most residential systems with a newer filter drier, the temperature drop may be around . 5 degree temp drop or less from one side to the other.

Can you run an AC without a filter drier?

No, you should never run your AC without a filter!

The purpose of your air filter is to clean your home's air and to keep your AC system dust- and dirt-free, which is why it's important to only run your AC with a filter installed.

What are the symptoms of a bad filter drier?

The symptoms for a partially plugged filter drier include:
  • Higher-than-normal discharge temperature;
  • High superheats;
  • Low evaporator pressure;
  • Low condensing pressure;
  • Normal-to-a-bit-high condenser subcooling;
  • Low condenser splits;
  • Local cold spot or frost after the restriction;
  • Low amp draw; and.

Can an air filter be installed incorrectly?

If you set your filter up backwards, the normally collective end of the device will not face the air supply. In effect, your filter will help keep debris in the air. This results in a clogged filter and improperly cleaned air when it reaches your lungs.

What happens if filter drier is installed backwards?

What happens if you install a filter drier backwards? - Quora. It will loose most of it's Desiccant, which will be in the form of small beads. The beads will go all through the system.

Does the direction of the filter matter?

If you install your filter in the wrong direction, air will have a hard time flowing through the filter's material and your air handler will have to work overtime to make up for the loss of airflow. This is not only a waste of energy, but it can also possibly damage your air conditioner or heating system.

Should filter drier go before or after sight glass?

The sight glasses should be installed directly after the filter drier, ensuring that the filter drier is functioning properly. Refrigerant flows normally through the sight glass, which contains a small, glass-covered chamber.

Which way does a filter drier go?

Which Direction does a Liquid line Filter Drier Go? The arrow on the filter drier will point the flow direction. Most of the filter driers are one way filter drier. The Bi-flow filter drier is designed for heat pump system, with double way flow directions.

Is the receiver drier on the low side?

Receiver driers are located on the high side of an A/C system.

What happens if you don't replace the receiver drier?

It's worth noting that if you don't replace the drier when you change a compressor you will invalidate your warranty protection.

Should filter drier be vertical or horizontal?

The drier may be installed in any position – vertical or horizontal – and with feed in either direction. Where possible, the horizontal position is preferred. Some type of pipe strap support is recom- mended so the weight of the drier does not cause undue strain on the refrigerant line.

What causes a receiver drier to go bad?

Receiver Drier with Blockage - May be caused by rust/corrosion, desiccant breakdown, or contamination from other failed components such as compressors.

How often should a filter drier be replaced?

All filter driers should be replaced every 2 years or by manufacturer's recommendation.

What happens if the air filter is backwards?

It will be harder for the air to flow, which would take a toll on your system. More strain means spiked utility bills. The metal mesh can trap debris and affect the airflow and quality. It will decrease the efficiency of the air filter and reduce its durability.

Do I need to turn off the furnace to change the filter?

Changing a furnace filter is simple. First, make sure your furnace is turned OFF so it doesn't blow air when you remove the filter. Next, locate the filter housing on your furnace. This is different for each model, but you can normally find it between the air intake and the furnace.

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