Which of the following is NOT one of the four basic refrigerant circuit components?

• A. Evaporator
• B. Compressor
• C. Condenser
• D. Drier

Answer: (D)

The basic refrigerant circuit is made up of the evaporator, compressor, condenser, and the metering (expansion) device. The evaporator absorbs heat from the space, the compressor raises the refrigerant pressure, the condenser releases heat to the surroundings, and the metering device reduces the refrigerant pressure to allow it to boil again in the evaporator. A drier, on the other hand, is a moisture-removal component placed in the liquid line to protect the system from moisture and contaminants. It’s important for reliability, but it isn’t one of the four fundamental circuit components that define the cycle. That’s why the drier is the correct answer.