Where is the expansion valve located?
The expansion valve is situated in the liquid line between the condenser and the inlet of the evaporator. It operates on the opposite side of the system, relative to the compressor.
What are the symptoms of a failing expansion valve?
4 Symptoms of a Bad A/C Expansion Valve (& Replacement Cost)
- #1 – Poor Air Conditioning Performance.
- #2 – Inconsistent Airflow From Vents.
- #3 – Air Conditioning Constantly Running.
- #4 – Frost Forming on A/C Compressor or Vents.
How do I know if my expansion valve is stuck open?
The expansion valve can fail in one of two ways. When stuck open, it allows two much refrigerant flow, and a drop in high side pressure. A gauge reading of less than 200 psi on the high side will be seen when this happens. When stuck closed, a higher than normal high side reading will be seen.
What does a bad expansion valve look like?
The most recognizable symptom of a bad A/C expansion valve is when you turn on your air conditioner and warm air starts blowing out of the vents. This would obviously mean that not enough refrigerant is making its way to the core of the evaporator.
Can you clean an expansion valve?
It is very difficult to determine if a Thermostat Expansion Valve is clean. The only way to be sure the valve is clean is to put it back into operation and run a system performance test. If there is any malfunction, the unit must be disassembled again to change the valve.
Can you unclog an expansion valve?
Opening of the valve should be relatively quick. Even holding he bulb in your hand should provide enough heat to open the valve. Next, place the TXV bulb into cold water. This should cause the expansion valve to close reducing the amount of refrigerant to pass thought the TXV into the coil.
What causes expansion valve failure?
As the expansion valve operates under high pressures and is temperature sensitive, improper working conditions, as well as impurities inside the loop, can cause its deregulation and malfunction. If the valve is stuck open, too much refrigerant is allowed to pass through the system and into the compressor.