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Components & Functions: Accumulator

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The accumulator is a refrigerant storing device, located at the evaporator outlet. This unit receives and stores vapor, some liquid and refrigerant oil from the evaporator.

An oil bleed hole is located in the lower portion of the accumulator, assuring return of the oil to the compressor. This prevents oil from being trapped in the accumulator. A bag of desiccant is located in the bottom of the accumulator. See Fig 1.

Fig 1: Manual A/C-Heater System Accumulator Operation Accumulator keeps liquid R-12 from reaching compressor. Courtesy of General Motors Corp.
G17350