What does the term "system evacuation" refer to in refrigeration?

The term "system evacuation" specifically refers to the process of removing air and moisture from the refrigeration system. This step is critical before charging a system with refrigerant, as the presence of air and moisture can cause various problems. Air in the system can lead to pressure imbalances and inefficiencies, while moisture can react with refrigerant and oil to form acids that can corrode components and harm the system's overall performance.

When a system is evacuated, a vacuum pump is typically used to create a vacuum, effectively pulling out any trapped air and moisture. This ensures that the system operates efficiently and reliably, prolonging its lifespan and performance. Proper evacuation is a pivotal step in ensuring that the refrigerant charge is accurate and that the system functions as intended.