Refrigeration & Air Conditioning USCG Question #1006 (Set 20)

If a refrigeration compressor were short-cycling on the low pressure cutout switch, what is the most probable cause?

Official USCG Answer & Rule Citation

Correct Answer: Option A — the expansion valve strainers were fouled

Fouled expansion valve strainers severely restrict liquid refrigerant flow into the evaporator, dropping suction pressure rapidly. This premature pressure drop trips the low-pressure cutout switch, causing the compressor to cycle on and off continuously.

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