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Home > Technicans Corner > Oil Logged Coils and Noisy Compressors
Oil Logged Coils and Noisy Compressors
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We've been hearing and fielding numerous complaints on "surging" or vibrating compressors and oil logged coils. To be honest its extremely hard to know for sure what is going on or why its happening, and unfortunately the equipment manufactures do not have much for us either at this time. Below is a list of recommendations to possibly eliminate these issues/concerns, and hopefully add longevity to the AC system and keep end users happy. Use these methods on ANY brand of residential AC equipment, regardless of refrigerant type. 

 

 

1. Install TXV's or use TXV coils. With SEER changes, higher pressure refrigerants, blended refrigerants and the use of synthetic compressor oils, the TXV does a superior job of modulating refrigerant flow, and compressor protection. 

 

2. Use the correct line set size. Too large of a suction line can cause low velocity on refrigerant flow and prevent oil from returning to the compressor.

 

3. SET AND VERIFY AIRFLOW!!! Critical for system performance and operation of the TXV. Also helps prevent liquid slugging of the compressor and eliminates the need to overcharge a system to "get the suction pressure up"

(Restrict 50% of your cars air filter and let me know how that goes.)

 

4. Break the vacuum with refrigerant charge. Even if the line set is under 15ft (just keep track of how much you added, you will likely need to remove the same amount). Tech's are doing a much better job of pulling deep vacuum on new systems. Once the vacuum is done and it passes the decay test, break the vacuum with a charge of refrigerant BEFORE opening the service valves on the condenser. This can help from oil being "sucked out" of the compressor. 

 

5. "Crack" the suction valve. Allow it to almost equalize (approx 5-10 minutes) and then "Crack" the liquid side service valve. Allow the system to equalize before opening them both fully. 

 

6. Verify and set SH (superheat) and SC (subcooling). Add or remove charge as needed. 

 

7. Be Patient. Any adjustment of charge, airflow or TXV while the system is running requires a minimum of 10 minutes for the system to reach steady state. 

 

8. Monitor RA and OD temperatures. Too cold will cause low suction pressure and refrigerant velocity. 

 

 

"In the world of technical trouble-shooting, become a  Marksman"

 

 

 

 

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