Which refrigerant component prevents liquid refrigerant from returning to the compressor?

• A. Suction-line accumulator
• B. Liquid receiver
• C. Oil separator
• D. Evaporator

Answer: (A)

Liquid slugging can damage the compressor when liquid refrigerant makes its way back through the suction line. A suction-line accumulator provides a separation space on the low-pressure side, allowing any liquid that flows toward the compressor to settle out while only vapor continues to the compressor. This ensures the compressor receives gas rather than liquid, protecting it from damage and helping the system start reliably after low-load or rapid changes in operation. The liquid receiver stores high-pressure liquid on the discharge side, not on the suction side; an oil separator removes oil from discharge gas, not prevent liquid from returning to the compressor; and the evaporator is where heat absorption happens, not a safeguard for preventing liquid return to the compressor.