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Undercharged system: compressor runs continuously, poor cooling, high power use, warm liquid line and drier

What is going on

Possible causes and checks for: undercharged system: compressor runs continuously, poor cooling, high power use, warm liquid line and drier.

Likely causes

  • Low charge → high-side not condensing

Check in this order

  1. Note hot drier may release trapped moisture back into system
  2. Fix leak, recharge, consider new drier

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Source: General HVAC service practice — verify per model. Written in our own words; check the manual for your exact model.

For licensed technicians. Gas, electrical and refrigerant work must be done by a qualified, licensed person. Shut off power and gas before servicing, never bypass a safety control, and follow the manufacturer’s manual for the exact model; it and local codes always take priority. HVACopedia is not affiliated with any manufacturer; brand and model names only identify the equipment.