How Many Expansion Valves Are There?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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There are basically

four types of

valves that are in used. These valves are also refer to as metering devices.

How many types of expansion valves are there?

In refrigeration and air conditioning applications, there are

two

main types of expansion valves: thermostatic expansion valves (TXVs), and automatic, or constant-pressure, expansion valves (AXVs).

What are the 4 types of expansion valve?

  • Thermal Expansion Valves (TEVs)
  • Manual Valves.
  • Capillary Tubes.
  • Automatic Valves.
  • Electronic Expansion Valves.
  • Float Valves.

What types of expansion valves are there in HVAC?

In refrigeration and air conditioning applications, there are two main types of expansion valves:

thermostatic expansion valves (TXVs)

, and automatic, or constant-pressure, expansion valves (AXVs).

Where is an expansion valve located?

The expansion valve is situated in

the liquid line between the condenser and the inlet of the evaporator

. It operates on the opposite side of the system, relative to the compressor.

How do you know if your expansion valve is bad?

The most recognizable symptom of a bad A/C expansion valve is

when you turn on your air conditioner and warm air starts blowing out of the vents

. This would obviously mean that not enough refrigerant is making its way to the core of the evaporator.

How is an expansion valve controlled?

Thermostatic Expansion Valve uses a valve mechanism to control the flow of liquid refrigerant into the evaporator coil. The flow is

controlled by the pressure in the evaporator

. This type of metering device is able to operate well when the load fluctuates and hence is suitable for use in air conditioning system.

What happens when the expansion valve goes bad?

If the AC expansion valve fails or sticks open,

it will cause the compressor to pump refrigerant through the vehicle’s AC system

, even when it may be undesirable for it to do so. This will put an additional strain on the compressor and associated AC components, making them more susceptible to premature failure.

What are two disadvantages of the automatic expansion valve?

When the load on the evaporator is

high it won’t allow more flow of the refrigerant as

per the requirement. … Thus the automatic expansion valve does not allow the control of the flow of the refrigerant through it which is very important for the efficient operation of the refrigeration plant.

What is the main function of an expansion valve?

Expansion valves serve two purposes:

Controlling the amount of refrigerant entering the evaporator

: As much of the evaporator surface as possible should be covered with​ liquid refrigerant without liquid being carried over to the compressor.

How do you unstick an expansion valve?

Opening of the valve should be relatively quick. Even holding he bulb in your hand should provide enough heat to open the valve. Next, place the

TXV bulb into cold water

. This should cause the expansion valve to close reducing the amount of refrigerant to pass thought the TXV into the coil.

What happens if expansion valve is stuck open?

If the expansion valve is stuck open or clogged,

the AC system won’t cool properly

. A clogged valve leads to insufficient refrigerant, increasing the pressure in the system and causing the AC compressor to overheat.

Does the expansion valve need to be replaced?


There isn’t a specific lifespan of the valve

, it’s more just a wear and tear kind of situation. … If your expansion valve is cool and frosty, yet the air conditioning doesn’t seem to be blowing cold air out, there’s a good chance the valve needs to be replaced.

How do you test an expansion valve?

  1. Make sure the AC unit is plugged in or, if it is in an automobile, turn the vehicle on. …
  2. Use the manual to locate the thermostatic expansion valve. …
  3. Lift the sensing bulb from the suction bulb well. …
  4. Hold the sensing bulb in your hands for two minutes or place it in warm water.

How much does it cost to replace an expansion valve?

Replacing an HVAC thermostatic expansion valve costs

$100 to $500

. It’s also called a thermal expansion valve. Manufacturers may list it as TXV or TEV. The TXV controls the pressure of the refrigerant as it goes to the evaporator coil.

Can you clean an AC expansion valve?

Can you clean an AC expansion valve?

Pretty much anything can be cleaned

. But if the new part costs so little, it would not be worth the effort or risk if it was not cleaned properly.

David Martineau
Author
David Martineau
David is an interior designer and home improvement expert. With a degree in architecture, David has worked on various renovation projects and has written for several home and garden publications. David's expertise in decorating, renovation, and repair will help you create your dream home.