A/C Receiver Driers & Accumulators

Depending on what type of A/C system is present in a vehicle there could be either a receiver drier or an accumulator. A Thermostatic Expansion Valve system will have a receiver drier, while a fixed orifice tube system will have an accumulator present. Both parts essentially perform the same function from different sections of their respective systems. At CARiD we will only show you the correct parts available for your selected year, make, and model.

The receiver drier and the accumulator both contain a desiccant bag that absorbs water and traps debris. The accumulator does this from in between the evaporator and the compressor, while the receiver drier is located in the high-pressure liquid line between the condenser and expansion valve. Replacement of the accumulator or receiver drier is essential as debris and contaminates cannot be removed by flushing the system.

When a major A/C service is performed, replacement of the accumulator or receiver-drier is recommended by leading service authorities. Both of these crucial parts protect the A/C system from moisture to prevent corrosion and from debris to prevent formation of sludge, both of which can destroy the system from the inside. Corrosion will cause leaks while sludge will cause blockage that will build dangerous levels of pressure and eventually cause system failure. Excessive moisture in the air conditioning system may also cause abnormal gauge readings which can cause technicians to misinterpret their analyses.

A leaking system can result in moisture contaminating the refrigerant oil within the air conditioning system. The desiccant in the accumulator or receiver drier will hold a maximum of one tablespoon of moisture and will become saturated within a few hours of exposure to the atmosphere. Since it is impossible to determine the length of time a leaking system has been exposed to the atmosphere, or empty of refrigerant, replacing the accumulator or receiver drier is critical. Replacement of the accumulator or filter drier is often required to validate replacement compressor warranty.