What component regulates the flow of refrigerant in an A/C system?

The expansion valve is a critical component in an air conditioning (A/C) system that regulates the flow of refrigerant. Its primary function is to control the amount of refrigerant that enters the evaporator coil. By doing so, it ensures that the refrigerant is at the appropriate pressure and temperature to absorb heat from the indoor air effectively.

When the refrigerant flows through the expansion valve, it undergoes a pressure drop, which transforms it from a high-pressure liquid into a low-pressure mixture of liquid and vapor. This process allows the refrigerant to absorb more heat in the evaporator, which is essential for the cooling cycle to function efficiently. By modulating the flow based on the cooling demand within the space, the expansion valve helps maintain optimal system performance and energy efficiency.

In contrast, other components like the condenser, compressor, and receiver/dryer have different roles. The condenser is responsible for releasing heat absorbed by the refrigerant, the compressor increases the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant, and the receiver/dryer stores excess refrigerant and removes moisture. While all these components work in unison in the A/C system, the expansion valve specifically regulates the flow of refrigerant, making it critical for controlling the cooling process.