Question

When moisture exists in an operating system, which of the following is the most likely to occur?

1) Copper tubes and fittings will rust
2) Compressor discharge valves will freeze up
3) Acid will form
4) Compressor head pressures will rise

Answer 1

Moisture in an HVAC operating system most likely leads to acid formation, which can damage internal components and reduce system efficiency.

Step-by-step explanation:

When moisture exists in an operating system of HVAC equipment, one of the most likely outcomes is that acid will form. The presence of moisture can lead to the chemical reaction between the moisture and the refrigerant or the oil in the system. These reactions can produce acids that may cause damage to the internal components of the system, such as the compressor. Consequently, this can lead to a decrease in system efficiency and a potential system failure if left unchecked. Among other potential issues, moisture does not directly cause copper tubes to rust, as copper oxidizes without rusting, nor does it necessarily cause compressor discharge valves to freeze up or result in increased compressor head pressures unless it leads to freezing in other components of the system.