Do clogged air filters have the potential to cause liquid refrigerant to flow to the compressor?

Clogged air filters can lead to reduced airflow within the system. When the airflow is insufficient, it can cause the evaporator coil to become excessively cold, leading to the potential for refrigerant to not fully evaporate. This situation can result in liquid refrigerant accumulating in the suction line, which may eventually reach the compressor.

The compressor is designed to compress gas, and if liquid refrigerant enters it, this can cause significant damage, known as liquid slugging. Consequently, it is crucial to maintain clean air filters to ensure adequate airflow, proper refrigerant evaporation, and the overall health of the air conditioning system. Keeping air filters clean helps prevent this series of issues and helps maintain system efficiency and longevity.