The Thermostatic Expansion Valve Explained

October 20, 2021
Thermostatic Expansion Valve in De Soto, MO

You may be surprised to find that there are a lot of complex parts in an HVAC system. Each of these components is an important part of the heating and cooling of any building. The Thermostatic Expansion Valve (TXV) is one of these important elements, but most people have no clue what it is or how it works. Here is a quick overview of the purpose and function of the thermostatic expansion valve.

What Is a Thermostatic Expansion Valve?

Designed to improve the efficiency of your HVAC system, the thermostatic expansion valve controls the refrigerant’s flow into the evaporator as it changes from a liquid into a gas. When the refrigerant flow is limited, the thermostatic expansion valve creates a more efficient transfer of heat.

This important component will also help to keep your HVAC system from breaking down by controlling the release of refrigerant, ensuring that it will turn into vapor as it leaves the evaporator and goes into the compressor. It can create a lot of damage to the HVAC system if the liquid refrigerant is allowed to go into the compressor.

Issues With a Thermostatic Expansion Valve

When you want to properly regulate the refrigerant flow, the thermostatic expansion valve will open a certain amount at specific times. When it opens too wide, it will allow too much refrigerant to flow into the evaporator. When it doesn’t open at all or is not wide enough, the refrigerant is not able to reach the evaporator.

Typically, this is caused by contaminants or moisture in the system that jams the TXV, which can cause it to stick. This is a simple problem to fix, although it’s not easy to diagnose because the symptoms look similar to the problems that arise when you have low refrigerant.

It’s important to find HVAC technicians who are familiar with this issue so that they can diagnose the issue correctly. Contact De Soto Electrical Products when you have an HVAC problem. Our technicians will know what signs they need to look for and what the difference is between a broken TXV and low refrigerant so that they can make a correct diagnosis. Our experts can help you with a thermostatic expansion valve and other HVAC components to help your HVAC system run efficiently and smoothly.

Ask the Pros

When you have questions about your HVAC system, ask a certified HVAC technician from De Soto Electrical Products. We serve the De Soto area. De Soto Electrical Products has reliable and trained technicians that can help you with any of your heating, cooling, or electrical needs. We also have certified electricians on staff to help with electrical repairs, rewiring, and new construction wiring projects.

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