Where do non-condensable gases accumulate in a refrigeration system?

Non-condensable gases accumulate in the high side of a refrigeration system. The high side refers to the area of the system where the refrigerant has been compressed and is at high pressure, typically including the condenser and associated piping.

As the refrigerant cools and condenses in the condenser, any non-condensable gases present do not change phase or join the liquid refrigerant. These gases cannot condense under system pressures and therefore accumulate in this high-pressure area.

If non-condensable gases are present in the refrigeration system, they can lead to increased pressures, inefficient operation, and potentially damage to system components. This is why it's vital to maintain the integrity of the system and ensure it is free from air and other non-condensable gases that could interfere with the cooling process.

Accumulation of non-condensable gases in other parts of the system, such as the low side or the compressor, would not be accurate, as these areas are typically associated with lower pressures, where the refrigerant is in the vapor state and undergoing expansion or evaporation.