Receiver Dryer: Description and Operation

The receiver/drier is mounted on the right side of the engine compartment. It is part of the liquid line, between the condenser outlet and evaporator inlet.

High-pressure liquid refrigerant from the condenser flows into the receiver/drier. The receiver/ drier filters the refrigerant to prevent foreign material from contaminating the expansion valve. A desiccant bag inside absorbs any moisture which may have become trapped in refrigerant system. In periods of high demand air conditioner operation, it acts as a reservoir to store surplus refrigerant. If the receiver/drier is faulty, damaged, contaminated or the system has been left open to the atmosphere for an undetermined period, it must be replaced.