Correct answer: A large temperature drop across the drier.
If the filter drier is partially clogged, there may be a few degree temp drop across it. However, if the filter drier is completely clogged, there will be a large temperature drop across it and likely frost due to the low temp of the refrigerant exiting the clogged filter drier.
Common liquid line restrictions include clogged filter-driers or metering device restrictions. Many techs think that refrigerant will exit the compressor and back up against the source of the restriction, which would raise the head pressure. However, that's not true.
If your drier is clogged or contaminated, then your A/C likely won't be able to cool your cabin sufficiently. Debris inside the A/C system can clog the drier and cause the desiccant to mix with the refrigerant and lubricant.
How can you tell when a filter drier is stopped up? It will have a pressure drop of more than 2 psi across the filter.
Decreased Acceleration and Power
One of the first signs of a clogged intake air filter is a noticeable decrease in acceleration and power. If your car feels sluggish or struggles to pick up speed, it could be due to restricted airflow caused by a dirty filter.
The filter drier is an refrigeration component in refrigeration system. It plays the role of drying and filtering, ensures the refrigerant is dry and free of impurities, so that improves the efficiency and lifespan of the refrigeration system.
However, as these fine particles accumulate over time, they can create enough pressure drop to cause the liquid refrigerant passing through to flash to a vapor. This can cause a local cold spot on the filter drier and even cause condensation (sweating) to occur on the outer surface of the filter drier's body.
Clogged air filters prevent furnaces from running properly and reduce the life of the system. The blower, heat exchanger, burners and other components are all crucial for heating your space. A clogged system puts unnecessary stress on these components, and heating systems are not cheap to replace.
Final answer: A technician can determine if a filter drier is clogged when the pressure drop exceeds 2 psig, indicating that it needs replacement. Other indicators include a change in the color of the indicating chemical disc.
Burnout of the Air Conditioner Compressor Motor: Excess refrigerant can also leak into the crankcase and mix with the oil, causing the crankcase pressure to rise. This added stress can burn out the compressor motor, making it inoperable. As a result, you may have to replace the whole cooling system.
What if it's more than just a few slip-ups? In some rare cases, losing your “filter” can be a sign of something more serious, such as damage to the frontal lobes due to a brain injury or stroke, or a neurodegenerative condition such as frontotemporal dementia.
All filter driers should be replaced every 2 years or by manufacturer's recommendation.
The filter drier is responsible for preventing moisture and contaminants from entering the refrigerant. If it's faulty, it could lead to refrigerant leaks, which are often noticeable as a pool of liquid near the unit. Finally, if the filter drier is blocked, it could lead to ice forming on the coil.
The filter drier will both “filter” and “dry” the refrigerant. It will filter the refrigerant by removing debris and particulate matter from it, and dry the refrigerant by removing moisture.
Pressure, frostbite, overexposure to vapors and deliberate inhalation are all potential hazards with most com- monly used refrigerants. In general, R-410A should be han- dled the same as R-22, with the excep- tion of the higher pressure.