Air Conditioning Repair Certification (ETI) Practice Exam 2025 - Free Air Conditioning Repair Practice Questions and Study Guide

Running low on refrigerant can lead to complete system failure for several reasons. Refrigerant plays a crucial role in the heat exchange process within an air conditioning system. When the refrigerant level is low, the system is unable to effectively absorb heat from the indoor air and release it outside. This inefficiency can cause the compressor to work harder, leading to increased wear and tear on its components.

As the compressor tries to compensate for the lack of refrigerant, it can overheat due to excessive operation without sufficient lubrication, which is provided by the refrigerant. If the situation persists, this can ultimately result in a breakdown of the compressor or other critical components, leading to a complete system shutdown.

Moreover, operating under low refrigerant conditions can cause other problems, such as ice forming on the evaporator coil due to insufficient heat absorption. This ice buildup can further limit airflow and exacerbate system inefficiencies, increasing the risk of failure. Addressing refrigerant levels promptly and ensuring proper system maintenance is essential for avoiding such failures.