Which statement best describes the effect of a dirty or degraded filter-drier?

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A filter-drier is there to remove moisture and filter out solid contaminants from the refrigerant. When it becomes dirty or degraded, it can’t perform its job effectively, allowing moisture and contaminants to remain in the system. Moisture can react with oil to form acids and can cause corrosion of metal parts, while contaminants and moisture can form blockages in narrow passages like capillary tubes, filters, and valves. That combination leads to reduced performance, efficiency losses, and potential component damage, which is why the best description is that moisture and contaminants can cause blockages and corrosion. The idea that the filter-drier has no impact or that replacement is optional isn’t accurate, since maintaining a clean, functional filter-drier is essential for reliable operation.