ASE G1 Auto Maintenance and Light RepairHeating and Air Conditioning (HVAC)Medium
Which of the following is the PRIMARY purpose of the receiver/drier in an automotive air conditioning system?
- ATo remove moisture and filter contaminants from the refrigerant.
- BTo store excess refrigerant and separate liquid from vapor after the evaporator.
- CTo compress the refrigerant vapor into a high-pressure liquid.
- DTo lower the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. To remove moisture and filter contaminants from the refrigerant.
The receiver/drier serves two critical functions: absorbing moisture from the refrigerant using a desiccant, and filtering out debris to protect the system components.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. This describes the accumulator in systems with an orifice tube, not the receiver/drier.
- C. This is the function of the compressor.
- D. This is the function of the expansion valve or orifice tube.
Receiver/Drier Function
The receiver/drier stores liquid refrigerant and, more importantly, removes moisture and filters contaminants from the system.
- Located in the high-pressure side after the condenser.
- Contains a desiccant to absorb moisture.
- Contains a filter to remove particulate contaminants.
Memory trick: The drier keeps it clean and dry, so the AC can fly.