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Flooding occurs when refrigerant (in liquid form) enters the crankcase while the compressor is operating. The refrigerant then falls to the bottom beneath the refrigeration oil, where it will build up over time and lead to an increase in pressure. This can the cause the oil to escape through the system’s discharge lines, in effect leading to extensive problems with clogging and taking away needed lubrication from the compressor’s pistons.
SluggingThe main difference between flooding and slugging is that the latter refers to liquid refrigerant that is entering the compressor’s cylinder (as opposed to the crankcase) during the on cycle. This problem is typically more common in air-cooled semi-hermetic systems because they allow refrigerant to enter the cylinder directly. Causes of slugging include a faulty TXV, a damaged evaporator fan, a dirty or clogged evaporator and capillary tube overheating