What does improper refrigerant charging most likely lead to?

Improper refrigerant charging can significantly compromise the performance and reliability of a refrigeration system. When a system is overcharged or undercharged with refrigerant, it fails to operate within its designed parameters, which can lead to inefficient cooling or even a complete breakdown of the system.

For instance, if the refrigerant level is too low, the system may struggle to absorb sufficient heat, resulting in inadequate cooling performance and longer run times. Conversely, overcharging can create excessive pressure within the system, leading to additional stress on components like compressors and evaporators, potentially causing them to fail.

Moreover, operating under improper refrigerant levels can lead to increased energy consumption as the system works harder to achieve the desired temperature, ultimately negating savings on energy bills. This inefficiency can also result in more frequent repairs, and increased wear and tear, significantly shortening the lifespan of the equipment. Therefore, the most significant consequence of improper refrigerant charging is indeed system failure or inefficiency.