Reverse Flow in Liquid Line Filter-Drier

[andreas]

What happens if the refrigerant flows backwards through a liquid line filter-drier, that is, opposite the arrows printed on it? Is this a no-no?

[Wild Leg]

Usually nothing, if there isn't any debris in the system.
If there is, then it's more likely to develop a restriction.

The fine screen is on the wrong end of the drier.

The dessicant doesn't really care which direction the moisture comes from.

Maybe they need to put a little picture of a house on the outlet. :D

[andreas]

Thanks for the reply.

[incontrol]

It can matter. Why do you think there is an arrow?
There is an internal spring for compression of the dessicant beads that works with the filter flow. When installed backwards this reduces the spring tension and the beads can grind and turn to dust.


http://www.emersonclimate.com/images/pdf/POV_ultra_ekfilter_wp_0104.pdf#search=%22alco%20fi lter%20drier%22

[frigetater]

unless it's a heat pump with the proper dryer....bi-flow drier