Suction line accumulators in heat pump systems are used as receivers for what?

• A. Liquid refrigerant
• B. Oil
• C. Gas
• D. Excess refrigerant

Answer: (D)

The suction line accumulator acts as a small receiver on the low-pressure side to capture excess liquid refrigerant that can be carried back toward the compressor. The compressor expects vapor at its inlet; liquid entering can cause slugging and damage. The accumulator provides a designated space where this excess liquid can reside and either vaporize before reaching the compressor or be returned to the system, thus buffering and protecting the compressor. That’s why it’s described as receiving excess refrigerant. It isn’t primarily an oil reservoir, and it isn’t intended to store gas or normal liquid refrigerant in the system.