What impact does an undercharge of refrigerant typically have on the evaporator?

An undercharge of refrigerant in an air conditioning system has a significant impact on the evaporator, specifically leading to icing issues. When the refrigerant level is low, there may not be enough fluid to adequately absorb heat from the indoor air. This insufficient heat absorption can cause the evaporator coil to become colder than normal. As the coil temperature drops, moisture in the air that passes over the coil can freeze on its surface, leading to ice buildup.

This icing can disrupt airflow through the evaporator, reducing overall cooling efficiency and potentially causing system damage if not addressed. Unlike normal operation, where the system runs efficiently to promote heat exchange, an undercharged system struggles due to insufficient refrigerant, which is a crucial component for optimal cooling and heat transfer.