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coolguy4
10-04-2019, 11:40 PM
As you might have noticed from my previous posts, I am an HVAC enthusiast, not a professional.

So I am wondering what the symptoms are of an undercharged AC vs an overcharged AC. As far as I know:

Undercharged:
Poor performance (obviously)
Suction line not very cold
Suction and discharge pressures lower than normal
Discharge line cooler than normal
Liquid line cooler than normal
Compressor amp draw less than normal
Not much heat leaving the condenser
Evaporator coil freezes up or has frost

Overcharged:
Poor performance (obviously)
Higher than normal suction and discharge pressure
Suction line colder than normal
Compressor amp draw high
Discharge line hotter than normal
Liquid line hotter than normal
Not much heat leaving the condenser

Is that correct? Also, are there any other "tell tale" signs of either an undercharged or an overcharged system? Thank you very much in advance and sorry for the stupid question

Brian_UK
10-04-2019, 11:52 PM
Mostly you are correct but can I point you towards a thread which should answer all of your questions.
There's a lot of reading but it's worth it.

http://www.refrigeration-engineer.com/forums/showthread.php?19701-Refrigeration-101&highlight=refrigeration+101

The above thread will celebrate it's 10th birthday later this year. :)

RANGER1
11-04-2019, 12:51 PM
Some other ideas to add

http://blog.parker.com/hvacr-tech-tip-basic-troubleshooting-given-three-measurements