Where should a trap be installed when piping refrigerant lines in a system with the compressor above the evaporator?

The correct installation location for a trap when piping refrigerant lines in a system with the compressor above the evaporator is at the base of the vertical riser after leaving the evaporator.

In refrigeration systems, a trap is essential to prevent the accumulation of liquid refrigerant in the suction line, which could lead to compressor damage or inefficiency. When the compressor is positioned above the evaporator, the refrigerant must travel vertically up the riser. Installing the trap at the base of this vertical section ensures that any liquid refrigerant that condenses in the suction line can be properly collected and removed, allowing only vapor to enter the compressor. This configuration maintains optimal system performance and reliability.

Implementation of traps at other suggested locations may not effectively address the needs of the refrigerant cycle. For example, placing a trap at the condensate drain or after the evaporator before the TEV sensor could lead to improper refrigerant flow and potential flooding of the compressor. Additionally, requiring a trap every 20 feet of rise in the suction line may not align with proper refrigeration design principles and can result in excessive traps that are unnecessary for optimal system operation.