How to Troubleshoot a Suction Line Accumulator
An accumulator that is used with a refrigeration system prevents damage to the compressor due to a surge of refrigerant and oil. If refrigerant and oil enters the compressor from the suction line it may cause damage. A suction line accumulator is a vessel or reservoir that is designed to contain the mixture of refrigerant and oil until called for by the compressor. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Remove the insulation on the accumulator to view the amount of refrigerant that is stored inside. If the accumulator is full slugging can occur.
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Verify that the accumulator being used has the capacity to contain up to 50 percent of the refrigerant charge that is produced. Install a new accumulator if needed.
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Add a heat band to the accumulator. A heat band will provide heat to boil away some of the refrigerant.
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Examine the orifice of the accumulator to see if there is debris causing a clog. Remove debris from the screen element such as wax to allow the flow of the refrigerant.
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Check to see if there is a leak coming from the fusible element. If a leak is discovered from the fusible element you will need to replace the accumulator. This is a safety feature that cannot be repaired.
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