How do two ninety degree short radius elbows affect an air conditioner suction line?

Two ninety-degree short radius elbows in an air conditioner suction line create additional resistance to the flow of refrigerant due to the sharp turns they impose. These turns can lead to turbulence as the refrigerant flows through the line, which can result in friction losses.

When the flow of refrigerant encounters resistance, it will experience a pressure drop. This pressure drop can cause the system to operate less efficiently, as the compressor may have to work harder to maintain the required flow of refrigerant. Therefore, the correct understanding is that the use of such elbows can significantly impact both the pressure dynamics and the overall efficiency of the air conditioning system.

The reasoning behind the choice that there will never be an effect on system performance overlooks these important principles of fluid dynamics and thermodynamics which dictate how refrigerant flows through the system. In practice, it is essential for HVAC technicians to consider the design and layout of the refrigerant lines to minimize pressure drops and optimize efficiency.