What might a "restriction" in a refrigerant system lead to?

A restriction in a refrigerant system is a significant factor that can disrupt the normal flow of refrigerant. When there is a restriction, it can cause an imbalance in pressure throughout the system. This often leads to uneven cooling, as the refrigerant may not circulate effectively, affecting the evaporator and condenser's ability to perform optimally. Consequently, areas of the space being cooled may not reach the desired temperature, resulting in cooling issues.

In addition to the imbalanced pressure, the restriction can also create higher pressures on one side of the system (usually the high side), which can lead to other performance problems. The abnormal pressure readings can signal to technicians that there is an obstruction that needs to be identified and addressed to restore the system to normal operation. This understanding is crucial for HVAC technicians in diagnosing and troubleshooting issues within refrigerant systems.