Most air conditioner systems will use a component called a thermostatic expansion valve. The thermostatic expansion valve is a very small part of the air conditioning system but it plays a major role. When air conditioners develop a problem. most people never consider this tiny component of the air conditioning system. Absolute P&M Services would like to share how the thermostatic expansion valve works, its job, and how to troubleshoot a thermostatic expansion valve failure.
What Will the Thermostatic Expansion Valve Maintain?
The thermostatic expansion valve aids in the refrigeration process. The valve controls the flow rate of the refrigerant fluid that enters into the evaporator. The thermostatic expansion valve is made of brass and has an inlet and outlet connection. The thermostatic expansion valve has its main body, the powerhead, the pins, and the capillary tube which is all mainly made of brass and copper. The thermostatic expansion valve sits in between the condenser and the evaporator. The job of the thermostatic expansion valve is to regulate the rate the refrigerant fluid flow between the two major systems. When the air conditioner is running a cooling cycle, the thermostatic expansion valve must provide a continuous flow of refrigerant to the evaporator coil. Not only does the thermostatic expansion valve provide a constant flow of refrigerant, but it also ensures the proper amount and or speed flow to the evaporator coils. The thermostatic expansion valve pins respond to the temperature and pressure from the evaporator. The thermostatic expansion valve will then block, release and limit the refrigerant fluid’s flow to achieve different flow rates.
What Causes Thermal Expansion Valve Failure?
When the thermostatic expansion valve begins to fail, one of the first common signs is inefficient cooling. When the air conditioning system doesn’t seem to be producing any or enough cool air, many people will assume a major mechanical failure has occurred. However, poor cooling is often a refrigerant problem, and what controls the refrigerant. When the thermostatic expansion valve develops a problem the proper flow of refrigerant will be interrupted. Sometimes the thermostatic expansion valve’s powerhead overheats and it will malfunction, preventing the flow of refrigerant. The thermostatic expansion valve’s capillary tube will develop a blockage or even burst open allowing the refrigerant to leak out. When your air conditioner isn’t cooling properly but yet the air conditioner is running properly and the evaporator coils are clean, the thermostatic expansion valve may be the culprit. The thermostatic expansion valve will need to be inspected and properly repaired or the entire component might need to be replaced. Often the powerhead only needs to be replaced and the rest of the thermostatic expansion valve can be saved. However, if the thermostatic expansion valve is severely damaged than the whole component needs to be replaced.
Central Air Conditioning Maintenance, Repairs, Replacement & More in Santa Fe, Tomball, Sugar Land, Galveston, Austin & Greater Houston, Texas
Troubleshooting a failed thermostatic expansion valve can be very difficult as there may be no major signs of failure other than poor cooling. A professional HVAC technician will need to inspect the thermostatic expansion valve, clean out any blockage, or tend to any repairs or replacements. For quality HVAC and plumbing services, contact Absolute P&M Services today.
