Accumulator HVAC: Description and Operation

The accumulator is mounted in the engine compartment between the A/C evaporator outlet tube and the compressor inlet.

Refrigerant enters the accumulator canister as a low pressure vapor through the inlet tube. Any liquid, oil-laden refrigerant falls to the bottom of the canister, which acts as a separator. A desiccant bag is mounted inside the accumulator canister to absorb any moisture which may have entered and become trapped within the refrigerant system.